Germany Accuses China of Laser Targeting Aircraft During EU Mission Over Red Sea

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Tensions flared between Germany and China this week after Berlin accused a Chinese navy vessel of directing a military-grade laser at a German surveillance aircraft participating in the European Union's Operation ASPIDES in the Red Sea. The incident, described by officials as “unacceptable and dangerous,” forced the plane to abort its mission and return to base in Djibouti.

According to the German Ministry of Defense, the aircraft—operated by a private contractor with military personnel on board—was conducting a routine patrol when a laser beam was aimed at it from a Chinese warship, without prior warning or communication. The laser reportedly posed a serious safety risk to both the crew and onboard equipment.

As a result, the German government summoned the Chinese ambassador in Berlin, demanding clarification. “This kind of interference with a European security mission is completely unacceptable,” said a spokesperson for the German Foreign Ministry.

The European Union also stepped in. EU diplomatic services summoned the Chinese envoy to Brussels, expressing “deep concern” and labeling the laser incident as a threat to personnel and operational safety. EU foreign affairs spokesperson Anouar El Anouni stated, “This is a dangerous move. It jeopardizes not only the aircraft but the credibility of international cooperation in ensuring maritime security.”

China, however, denied any wrongdoing. Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning said the German accusations “do not align with the facts” and emphasized the need for communication based on evidence. “We hope all parties involved will refrain from actions that escalate misunderstandings,” she added.

Background on Operation ASPIDES

The incident occurred amid Operation ASPIDES, a European naval initiative launched in 2024 to protect commercial shipping routes in the Red Sea from attacks, particularly by Houthi rebels based in Yemen. The mission has been vital in maintaining security along one of the world’s most strategic trade corridors, heavily relied upon by European and Asian economies alike.

Strategic and Diplomatic Implications

This is not the first time Western powers have accused China of using lasers to intimidate foreign aircraft. The U.S. and Australia have previously raised similar concerns in the Indo-Pacific, citing military harassment. The German incident, however, marks the first such allegation made during a European mission in the Red Sea, an area increasingly influenced by Chinese naval operations.

Experts warn that such tactics, though non-lethal, are part of a broader playbook of "gray zone" warfare—measures designed to disrupt or provoke without triggering open conflict.If verified, the use of laser weapons on EU aircraft could escalate calls within the bloc for a more assertive maritime and foreign policy toward Beijing.

What’s Next

• The German Air Force has resumed operations in the region after inspecting the aircraft.

• An internal investigation is underway to assess the potential damage and determine the specifications of the laser system used.

• European leaders may propose additional safeguards or rules of engagement for future missions.

• Brussels could consider formal diplomatic responses depending on China’s willingness to cooperate in the investigation.