Australia condemns 'unsafe' Chinese fighter jet incident near surveillance aircraft

Australia has raised serious concerns regarding an incident involving a Chinese J-16 fighter jet that released flares dangerously close to an Australian P-8A Poseidon maritime patrol aircraft during a routine mission in the South China Sea. Australia's Defence Department described the maneuver as 'unsafe and unprofessional,' emphasizing that it posed risks to personnel and aircraft, although no injuries or damage occurred. This incident is part of ongoing tensions, with Chinese naval vessels also operating near Australia's maritime borders. Australian officials have made representations to the Chinese government in response to the flare incident, reiterating the importance of freedom of navigation and overflight in accordance with international law. Defence Minister Richard Marles highlighted the potential for significant damage had the flares struck the Australian aircraft, noting the flares passed within about 30 meters. The Australian Defence Force continues to monitor Chinese naval activities in the region closely.