According to diplomatic experts, a maritime incident involving a Chinese warship pointing a military-grade laser at an Australian surveillance aircraft was designed to test the reaction of Allied forces in the region.
“Whether China wants to investigate the United States in the South China Sea or the relationship between Australia and the United States, they always thought they would attack an Australian ship first,” said Joseph, Associate Professor of International Diplomacy at Curtin University. Siracusa said. Epoch Times.
“For example, in a small naval battle in the South China Sea, a Chinese frigate could board an Australian frigate, or a Chinese torpedo boat could sink an Australian frigate to test an alliance,” he added.
“When I saw that laser [incident]— It’s a real challenge for both Australia and the US … These mini-attacks on Australian assets are really feints or attempts to see how far they can go before their brother (US) arrives, “he said. rice field.
Siracusa also warned that the Western response to the Ukrainian invasion (sanctions imposed after Russian troops were already stationed in the country) showed weakness.
“The real lesson for defense planners is how far the situation in Ukraine is for a country like Australia if they think the alliance is an ironclad warship, or if they think they are with people coming to their aid. It will be a warning story. The West and the United States will go to their respective countries. “
Meanwhile, China’s laser incident occurred on February 17, with two PLA Navy (PLAN) vessels, a Luyan-class guided-missile destroyer and a Yuzao-class amphibious transport dock vessel legally crossing the North Sea. Was there. Australia within the exclusive economic zone.
The Australian Defense Force (ADF) has dispatched a P-8A Poseidon observer to monitor two vessels within the scope of international law.
However, while the Chinese ship was in the Arafura Sea, Luyan-class ships aimed military-grade lasers at the plane. Prime Minister Scott Morrison called it a “threatening act.”
Laser pointing is often referred to as “target painting” and momentarily precedes the firing of the weapon. Such movements are perceived by military personnel as hostile acts.
Australian defense officials expressed concern and sought a full investigation with Chinese authorities, the Canberra embassy, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Chinese Ministry of Defense.
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Daniel Y. Teng is based in Sydney. He focuses on national politics, including federal politics, COVID-19 response, and relations between Australia and China. Do you have a hint? Contact him at [email protected]