Chinese PLA-Air Force fighter aircraft fires flares in front of Australian Navy helicopter in the Yellow Sea off South Korea
A Chinese warplane fired flares at an Australian Navy helicopter in international waters, an action deemed an “unsafe and unprofessional interaction.”
The near-catastrophic incident occurred Saturday evening during a routine operation in the Yellow Sea off South Korea, when a Navy Seahawk was intercepted by a Chinese J10 Air Force fighter jet.
HMAS Hobart took part in United Nations Operation Argos, as part of an international effort to enforce sanctions against North Korea.
It was during these activities that the MH-60R helicopter was launched from HMAS Hobart, but was subsequently intercepted by the Chinese PLA-Air Force fighter aircraft.
A Chinese warplane dropped flares at an Australian Navy helicopter (photo) in international waters on Saturday evening
According to the Secretary of Defense, flares were dropped about 1,000 feet in front of the Seahawk helicopter and about 200 feet above it.
Flares were released along the flight path of the Australian Defense Force helicopter, according to Defense Minister Richard Marles.
“The PLA Air Force aircraft dropped flares approximately 1,000 feet in front of the Seahawk helicopter, approximately 200 feet above, causing the helicopter to take evasive action to avoid being hit by those flares,” he said. 9News.
“This was an incident that was both unsafe and unprofessional.
“We will not be deterred from engaging in lawful activities and activities designed to enforce UN sanctions against North Korea.”
The ADF labeled the incident ‘unacceptable’.
“This was an unsafe maneuver that posed a risk to the aircraft and personnel,” a department statement said.
“While no injuries were sustained by ADF personnel or damage was caused to the MH-60R helicopter, the safety and well-being of our ADF personnel remains our top priority.
“Australia expects all countries, including China, to operate their militaries in a professional and safe manner.”
The Chinese aggression is worrying Australia and its allies, following an earlier attack in the waters off the coast of Japan.
In November, several Australian Navy divers were injured when a Chinese warship fired sonar pulses while HMAS Toowoomba was operating in the South China Sea.
China’s aggression is worrying Australia and its allies, following an earlier attack in the waters off the coast of Japan