Germany has accused China of targeting its reconnaissance aircraft with a laser during an EU-led mission in the Red Sea
I. The Incident: Laser Targeting Sparks Diplomatic Outrage
Germany Slams China – On July 2, 2025, Germany’s defense ministry reported that a Chinese warship aimed a laser at a German Multi-Sensor Platform (MSP) aircraft during a routine reconnaissance flight over the Red Sea, as part of the EU’s ASPIDES mission. The aircraft, operated by a civilian provider with German military personnel onboard, was forced to abort its mission and land safely in Djibouti.
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The German Foreign Ministry swiftly condemned the act, stating on social media: “Endangering German personnel and disrupting the operation is completely unacceptable.” The Chinese ambassador was summoned to Berlin for an explanation.
China denied the accusation, calling Germany’s account “totally inconsistent with the facts known by the Chinese side.” Beijing claimed its naval forces were conducting escort operations in the Gulf of Aden and waters around Somalia, contributing to international maritime security.
The ASPIDES mission, launched in February 2024, aims to protect commercial shipping routes from Houthi rebel attacks in the Red Sea. Germany contributes over 700 personnel to the operation, alongside other EU nations including France, Italy, and Sweden.
II. Strategic Implications: Military Risk Meets Geopolitical Tension
This incident marks a rare confrontation between China and a European NATO member, raising concerns about military escalation and operational safety in contested maritime zones. While the use of lasers by Chinese forces has previously been reported by the United States, such direct targeting of European assets is unprecedented.
The MSP aircraft, described as a “flying eye,” plays a critical role in gathering reconnaissance data for EU partners. Its temporary withdrawal disrupted mission continuity and highlighted vulnerabilities in civil-military coordination.
Defense analysts warn that laser targeting—whether for guidance or intimidation—can damage sensitive equipment, blind pilots, and violate international norms. The lack of prior communication from the Chinese vessel further escalates the severity of the incident.
Germany’s response may influence broader EU-China relations, especially amid growing unease over Chinese influence in European infrastructure and technology sectors. The incident also coincides with heightened scrutiny of China’s military footprint in the Indo-Pacific and Middle East.
III. Navigating the Fallout: Diplomacy, Deterrence, and Maritime Security
Germany’s decision to summon China’s ambassador signals a firm diplomatic stance, but experts argue that more robust deterrence mechanisms are needed. Options include:
- Enhanced maritime protocols for EU missions
- Joint investigations into hostile engagements
- Real-time communication channels between naval forces
The EU may also consider formal protests through international maritime bodies, citing violations of freedom of navigation and operational safety. Meanwhile, China has urged both sides to adopt a “fact-based attitude” and avoid “misunderstanding and misjudgement”.
This episode adds to a growing list of laser-related confrontations involving China’s military. In 2020, a Chinese warship reportedly fired a laser at a U.S. naval aircraft near Guam, a claim Beijing denied.
As the ASPIDES mission resumes, Germany remains committed to its role in securing international shipping lanes. But the incident underscores the fragile balance between strategic cooperation and confrontation in global maritime operations.
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