The PLA-AF aircraft released flares in close proximity to the RAAF P-8A aircraft

INN/Lucknow, @Infodeaofficial

Following a dangerous and unprofessional encounter with a People’s Liberation Army-Air Force (PLA-AF) aircraft, the Australian government has communicated its concerns to the Chinese government. On February 11, 2025, a PLA-AF J-16 fighter aircraft and a Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) P-8A Poseidon maritime patrol aircraft engaged in a dangerous and unprofessional encounter while on a regular maritime surveillance patrol in the South China Sea.

Flares were released by the PLA-AF aircraft near the RAAF P-8A aircraft. The airplane and its occupants were at risk due to this unprofessional and dangerous maneuver. The RAAF P-8A was not damaged, and no Australian Defence Force (ADF) personnel were hurt. Our top focus remains the safety and well-being of our ADF soldiers.

Australia expects all nations, including China, to have professional and safe military operations. The ADF has been conducting maritime surveillance operations in the area for many years, adhering to international law and exercising its right to overflight and freedom of navigation in international skies and waters.