Chinese Fighter Jet Releases Flares in the Path of an Australian Maritime Helicopter

Chinese fighter aircraft intercept an Australian Navy MH-60R helicopter launched from HMAS Hobart by releasing flares in its path over the Yellow Sea.

An Australian Government statement said it has expressed its concerns to the Chinese Government following an unsafe and unprofessional interaction with a People’s Liberation Army – Air Force (PLA-AF) fighter aircraft.

On 4 May 2024, HMAS Hobart was in international waters in the Yellow Sea undertaking routine activities as part of Operation Argos, Australia’s contribution to the international effort to enforce United Nations Security Council sanctions against North Korea.

During these activities, a Royal Australian Navy MH-60R helicopter launched from HMAS Hobart was intercepted by a PLA-AF fighter aircraft.

The PLA-AF aircraft released flares across the flight path of the Australian Defence Force (ADF) helicopter. This was an unsafe manoeuvre which posed a risk to the aircraft and personnel.

Australia expects all countries, including China, to operate their militaries in a professional and safe manner.

The Chinese government has so far not responded to the Australian complaint