Overview
- The Australian Defence Force says a PLA-N helicopter matched an ADF MH-60R’s altitude, closed to an unsafe distance, sped ahead and rolled toward it on March 4, forcing evasive action over the Yellow Sea.
- The MH-60R had launched from HMAS Toowoomba during Operation Argos, which supports enforcement of UN Security Council sanctions on North Korea in international waters.
- Canberra reported no injuries or damage and said its ship and helicopter operated in accordance with international law, asserting rights to navigation and overflight.
- Australia lodged complaints through its embassy in Beijing and with the Chinese embassy in Canberra, labeling the maneuver unsafe and unprofessional.
- China’s Defense Ministry rejected the allegation, accusing Australia of close-in reconnaissance near its coast and describing China’s response as justified, professional and consistent with international law.