Berlin (Agencies): July 8, 2025 — Tensions between Berlin and Beijing have flared after Germany accused a Chinese warship of endangering its personnel by firing a laser at a German surveillance aircraft during a European Union maritime security mission over the Red Sea.
According to Germany’s Defense Ministry, the incident occurred on July 2 during a routine patrol by a German reconnaissance aircraft operating under Operation ASPIDES, the EU’s mission to safeguard commercial shipping from Houthi rebel attacks. The aircraft, operated by a civilian contractor with Bundeswehr personnel onboard, was reportedly illuminated by a laser from the Chinese destroyer Baotou without warning or prior communication.
The laser exposure forced the aircraft to abort its mission and return to base in Djibouti. German officials said the laser posed a serious risk to the crew’s eyesight and onboard equipment.
“This was a reckless and unacceptable act,” a German Foreign Ministry spokesperson said, confirming that the Chinese ambassador had been summoned to provide an explanation. “We expect full clarification and assurances that such incidents will not be repeated.”
While China has not officially responded, the incident comes amid growing international scrutiny of Beijing’s naval activities in contested waters. The Baotou was reportedly operating in the same region as part of China’s anti-piracy deployment, but its engagement with a European aircraft has raised concerns about rules of engagement and military transparency.
The EU’s Operation ASPIDES was launched earlier this year to protect shipping lanes in the Red Sea following a surge in drone and missile attacks by Yemen’s Houthi rebels. Germany has contributed naval and aerial assets to the mission, which operates in close coordination with other international forces in the region.
Defense analysts warn that the laser incident could strain already delicate relations between China and the EU, particularly as both sides navigate complex trade and security dynamics.
The German aircraft has since resumed operations, but Berlin has called for a formal investigation and international protocols to prevent future confrontations in shared airspace.