A Chinese J-10 fighter jet released flares near an Australian navy helicopter in the Yellow Sea, leading to a diplomatic protest from Australia.

Defense Minister Richard Marles and Prime Minister Anthony Albanese both criticized the maneuver as 'unsafe' and 'unprofessional', demanding a response from Beijing.

The Australian helicopter, part of a mission to enforce UN sanctions against North Korea, managed to evade the flares without any casualties.

The encounter represents an escalation in military tensions, following a similar incident between Australia and China last November.

Chinese President Xi Jinping is expected to visit Australia later this year, despite recent military confrontations and broader regional disputes.