Civilian and commercial aircraft flying off Australia’s east coast have been diverted due to Chinese naval vessels performing live-fire drills. The Chinese communist regime describes the drills as routine training exercises compliant with international law. However, conducting such military drills so close to Australia is exceptionally rare and represents a potential escalation against the United States and its allies’ maritime dominance in the Pacific Ocean.
Australia’s defense department has been tracking three Chinese naval vessels, including the frigate Hengyang, cruiser Zunyi, and replenishment vessel Weishanhu, following their recent sightings. Leftist Prime Minister Anthony Albanese claims that the activities are in accordance with international law and pose no immediate threat to Australian or New Zealand assets.
Currently, the three Chinese vessels are approximately 340 nautical miles east of the coast of New South Wales. However, at one point, they were within 150 nautical miles of Syndey—suggesting the drills are intended as a form of intimidation or provocation. In response to inquiries about the drills, China’s foreign ministry emphasized that the exercises would be conducted safely and professionally, adhering to global legal standards.
Meanwhile, Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong expressed concerns and indicated plans to address the issue with Chinese officials. Speaking from a G20 meeting in Johannesburg, South Africa, she reiterated Australia’s intention to engage in discussions regarding the exercises. In the wake of the announcement, Airservices Australia, responsible for air traffic management, issued a caution for commercial aircraft to adjust their flight paths to avoid the affected area. The agency stated that it is collaborating to provide guidance to air operators and pilots.
