Australia And New Zealand Closely Monitor Chinese Warships Near Their Waters
Three Chinese warships are being tracked by Australian and New Zealand defense forces as they conduct maneuvers along Australia’s east coast. The presence of the warships, which include a guided missile cruiser, a frigate, and a supply vessel, has raised questions about Beijing’s intentions in the region.
Australian Defense Minister Richard Marles acknowledged that while China’s naval activity in international waters is not unprecedented, the situation is “unusual.” The Chinese task group, which traveled through the Coral Sea before approaching Australia’s exclusive economic zone, is now being closely monitored by both Australian and New Zealand military assets.
New Zealand Defense Minister Judith Collins confirmed that her country’s military is coordinating with Australia to track the Chinese ships. Collins said that New Zealand had not received any information from China about the purpose of the deployment or its intended destination.
The situation follows a recent confrontation between Australian and Chinese military aircraft over the South China Sea. Australia accused China of unsafe conduct after a Chinese fighter jet released flares near an Australian surveillance plane. Beijing responded by claiming the Australian aircraft had violated Chinese sovereignty.
Adding to concerns, the Chinese navy announced that it would conduct live-fire drills in the Tasman Sea. The notice prompted Australian aviation authorities to advise commercial airlines to adjust flight routes. Australian officials, including Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, stressed that while the Chinese ships are operating legally, the lack of transparency surrounding their activities is a growing concern.
As tensions rise, Australia has engaged in discussions with regional allies, including Papua New Guinea and the US, about Beijing’s increased military presence in the South Pacific.
