The Australian maritime patrol aircraft suffered no damage in the incident. (Image: Australian air force)
has accused ’s military of “unsafe and unprofessional” conduct following an incident over the contested .
The Australian government said a Chinese J-16 fighter released flares close to one of its maritime patrol aircraft, posing a risk to the plane and its crew.
The Australian P-8A Poseidon was said to be on a routine patrol mission when the incident happened on Tuesday.
No injuries or damage was sustained and the Australian government says it has “expressed its concerns” to Beijing.
“Australia expects all countries, including China, to operate their militaries in a safe and professional manner,” the country’s defence ministry said in a statement.
“For decades, the ADF has undertaken maritime surveillance activities in the region and does so in accordance with international law, exercising the right to freedom of navigation and overflight in international waters and airspace.”
The Chinese foreign ministry accused the Australian aircraft of “deliberately intruding” into its airspace and “jeopardising” its national security, Reuters reports.
China claims much of the strategically important South China Sea, although this is not supported by international law, and its claims are disputed by other nations.
DON’T MISS [SOUTH CHINA SEA] [CHINA] [NATO]
Australia said a J-16 released flares close to a P-8A Poseidon (Image: Getty)
The incident is the latest in a series of episodes between China and Australia, which while not a NATO member is considered a partner of the alliance, in the region.
Last year, Australia accused a Chinese fighter jet of dropping flares close to an Australian navy helicopter whilst in international airspace.
In 2023, China was blamed for causing minor injuries to divers from an Australian warship in international waters by using sonar pulses.
with China in the region.
This latest incident comes after Australia confirmed it was monitoring a Chinese naval task group in waters around the country.
China has been rapidly advancing its military capabilities in recent years, with its navy now believed to be the biggest in the world.