A Chinese warship reportedly aimed a laser at a German surveillance aircraft operating over the Red Sea, according to Berlin’s announcement on Tuesday. This incident, while uncommon in the region, aligns with multiple accusations from the US and its allies against China’s military for employing lasers against aircraft and vessels in the Pacific.

A spokesperson from the German defense ministry stated that the Chinese warship targeted the aircraft without any warning or prior communication during a routine surveillance flight in support of Operation Aspides, which is the European Union’s counter-Houthi mission. The German aircraft, described as a multi-sensor platform providing reconnaissance, had to abort its flight for safety reasons but landed securely at a base in Djibouti. Operations with Operation Aspides resumed shortly thereafter.

The spokesperson emphasized that by using the laser, the Chinese warship jeopardized the safety of personnel and equipment, noting that the vessel had been encountered several times in that vicinity. Germany’s foreign office condemned the act, stating that endangering German personnel and disrupting operations is entirely unacceptable, and summoned the Chinese ambassador in Berlin in response.

This incident marks the latest chapter in a series of allegations involving Chinese lasers targeting foreign aircraft and vessels. The US has previously labeled such actions as “dangerous.” Past incidents include accusations against China for using lasers against pilots in Africa and targeting US surveillance planes in the Pacific. Australia and the Philippines have also condemned similar behaviors from China.

Military-grade lasers pose significant risks, including potential damage to equipment and threats to aircraft operations and crew safety. The US and its allies have criticized China for engaging in dangerous intercept practices, including unsafe maneuvers near aircraft and releasing flares in flight paths—events that have been documented in regions such as the South China Sea and Taiwan Strait.