Thu Feb 13 10:32:35 UTC 2025: ## Chinese Jet’s Flares Near Australian Plane Spark Diplomatic Row
**Canberra, Australia** – Tensions escalated between Australia and China following a mid-air incident in the South China Sea. Australia accused a Chinese Shenyang J-16 fighter jet of performing an “unsafe and unprofessional manoeuvre” on February 11th, releasing flares within 30 meters of an Australian P-8 Poseidon surveillance aircraft conducting a routine patrol.
Australian Defence Minister Richard Marles stated the flares posed a significant risk to the nine-person crew, although no injuries were reported. He confirmed that Australia lodged formal complaints with Chinese authorities in both Canberra and Beijing.
China swiftly countered, accusing the Australian plane of violating Chinese airspace around the Xisha (Paracel) Islands, claiming its actions were justified and restrained. Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Guo Jiakun insisted the Australian aircraft intruded without permission, endangering national security. The Paracel Islands are also claimed by Vietnam and Taiwan.
This aerial incident follows the recent appearance of three Chinese naval vessels – a frigate, a cruiser, and a supply tanker – near Australia’s maritime approaches. While Australian Defence officials stated this was likely unrelated to the air incident, the Australian navy shadowed the Chinese vessels.
The Australian Defence Department reiterated its commitment to freedom of navigation and overflight rights under international law. The incident underscores growing tensions in the strategically important South China Sea, a region frequently witnessing military encounters between China and other nations.
First Piper 