The Dutch Ministry of Defence has issued a statement describing an "unsafe" close approach by Chinese military aircraft near a Royal Netherlands Navy warship in international waters off China earlier this month. The incident involving the frigate HNLMS Tromp occurred as the ship was operating in the East China Sea as part of an international mission monitoring possible violations of UN sanctions on North Korea.
The defence ministry said the encounter did not result in any mishap. However, the close manoeuvring of the People's Liberation Army (PLA) jet aircraft, which have been identified as JH-7 fighter-bombers, nonetheless created "a potentially unsafe situation."
A PLA Z-19 light reconnaissance helicopter was also detected in the area. After the first two jets departed, the Z-19 and another two PLA aircraft then approached Tromp's own NH90 helicopter.
Dutch defence officials said Tromp resumed its voyage shortly afterwards and headed for Japan. The frigate is scheduled to participate in the upcoming RIMPAC 2024 exercise in Hawaii, which will begin later this month.
A Chinese defence ministry spokesperson has meanwhile warned the Netherlands to restrain the actions of its naval forces following the incident. The official also said that any "infringement and provocation" by Dutch forces against China will be "resolutely countered."
