Australia has accused a Chinese military aircraft of releasing flares "in close proximity" to its patrol jet over the South China Sea.
The Australian government has raised its concern with Beijing over the "unsafe and unprofessional" manoeuvre, the defence department said in a statement on Monday.
There was no damage to Australia's P-8A aircraft and its personnel were unharmed after Sunday's encounter.
"Australia expects all countries, including China, to operate their militaries in a safe and professional manner," Australia Defrence Force said.
A spokesperson for the Chinese Foreign Ministry was unaware of the incident when asked by reporters.
