In a recent diplomatic confrontation, China has categorically rejected Germany's allegations that it aimed a laser from a warship at a German military plane operating in the Red Sea.
China Denies Germany's Accusation of Laser Targeting Incident
China Denies Germany's Accusation of Laser Targeting Incident
Tensions escalate as China refutes Germany's claims regarding a military aircraft laser targeting incident.
China's response came after Germany accused the Chinese military of endangering personnel during European Union-led operations against Houthi missile threats, prompting high-level diplomatic reactions from both nations.
Germany's foreign ministry reported that the incident occurred earlier this month when a German reconnaissance aircraft was allegedly targeted by a laser beam emitted from a Chinese warship spotted in the vicinity. As a precaution, the plane had to abort its mission and return to its base in Djibouti. In light of this threat, Germany's foreign ministry described the incident as "entirely unacceptable" and summoned the Chinese ambassador for an explanation.
Beijing, however, countered the claims, asserting that the German account was "totally inconsistent with the facts." Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning emphasized that Chinese naval forces were conducting legitimate escort operations in the Gulf of Aden and called for improved communication to prevent misunderstandings between the two nations.
Western countries, particularly the United States, have previously accused China of using lasers against military aircraft, a tactic that poses serious risks to pilot safety. The technology's rapid advancement in militaries worldwide has raised alarms about the implications for airspace security.
Strategically, China established its first overseas military base in Djibouti in 2017, directing naval activities towards anti-piracy and ensuring navigation freedom. This move, alongside the presence of Western military installations in the region, has drawn scrutiny regarding China's expanding influence amid ongoing maritime security challenges.
Germany's foreign ministry reported that the incident occurred earlier this month when a German reconnaissance aircraft was allegedly targeted by a laser beam emitted from a Chinese warship spotted in the vicinity. As a precaution, the plane had to abort its mission and return to its base in Djibouti. In light of this threat, Germany's foreign ministry described the incident as "entirely unacceptable" and summoned the Chinese ambassador for an explanation.
Beijing, however, countered the claims, asserting that the German account was "totally inconsistent with the facts." Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning emphasized that Chinese naval forces were conducting legitimate escort operations in the Gulf of Aden and called for improved communication to prevent misunderstandings between the two nations.
Western countries, particularly the United States, have previously accused China of using lasers against military aircraft, a tactic that poses serious risks to pilot safety. The technology's rapid advancement in militaries worldwide has raised alarms about the implications for airspace security.
Strategically, China established its first overseas military base in Djibouti in 2017, directing naval activities towards anti-piracy and ensuring navigation freedom. This move, alongside the presence of Western military installations in the region, has drawn scrutiny regarding China's expanding influence amid ongoing maritime security challenges.
