Germany has summoned China’s ambassador after accusing a Chinese warship of targeting one of its military aircraft with a laser during a European Union mission over the Red Sea earlier this month.
According to Germany’s foreign ministry, the incident occurred without provocation or prior communication during a routine reconnaissance flight as part of Operation Aspides — an EU naval mission launched in response to Houthi rebel attacks on international shipping.
The German aircraft has been conducting surveillance in the region since October under the mission, which covers the Red Sea, the Indian Ocean, and the Gulf. The goal of the operation is to protect merchant vessels, bolster maritime security, and guard against potential threats.
A spokesperson said the aircraft was illuminated by a laser from a Chinese navy vessel that had previously been observed in the region. The action is seen as an aggressive signal and has sparked diplomatic tensions between Berlin and Beijing.
The incident comes amid growing European concern over China’s expanding influence on sensitive technologies and infrastructure, further straining relations between the EU and Beijing.
