China defends mid-air intercept, accuses Australia of 'provocative' actions

China has responded to the incident involving the interception of an Australian reconnaissance aircraft in the South China Sea, following accusations that the event endangered the lives of the Australian crew. Australia stated that a Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) P-8A Poseidon maritime patrol aircraft was intercepted by two Chinese J-16 fighter jets on Tuesday while conducting routine patrols in the area. This incident has heightened tensions in the region.

Reportedly, one of the Chinese fighter jets released flares just 30 meters in front of the Australian aircraft. Australia has lodged a formal protest with China regarding the interception, deeming the behavior unsafe and unprofessional. In response, the Chinese Foreign Ministry stated that the Royal Australian Air Force aircraft "intruded" on China's sovereignty, and that China has lodged a protest regarding this.

Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun stated: "Australian military aircraft deliberately intruded into the airspace over China's Xisha Islands without China's permission. This action infringed upon China's sovereignty and undermined China's national security." Guo Jiakun also stated: "China took legitimate, reasonable, professional, and restrained measures to expel the aircraft." He added that Australia should cease its "provocative" actions in the South China Sea and work towards "peace and stability" in the region.

During the incident, the 12 Australian Defence Force (ADF) crew members were unharmed, and the RAAF P-8A aircraft sustained no damage. The Australian Department of Defence stated yesterday that the aircraft had been operating in international airspace. A Department of Defence spokesperson said: "The safety and well-being of our ADF personnel remains our highest priority." and added: "Australia expects all countries, including China, to operate their militaries in a safe and professional manner."

The spokesperson also emphasized: "The Australian Defence Force has been conducting maritime surveillance activities in the region for decades and does so in accordance with international law, exercising freedom of navigation and overflight in international waters and airspace." It is worth noting that a similar incident occurred last May, when a Chinese jet fighter dropped flares in front of an Australian Navy helicopter in international waters.