- Chinese warships conducted live-fire exercises in the Tasman Sea.
- Exercises prompted flight diversions between Australia and New Zealand.
- Australia and New Zealand criticized China’s short notice of drills.
- Chinese navy’s presence in the region is unprecedented.
- Diplomatic discussions are underway to address notification concerns.
On February 21, 2025, Chinese naval vessels carried out live-fire exercises in the Tasman Sea, located between Australia and New Zealand. The sudden announcement of these drills forced several commercial flights to change their routes for safety. Airlines like Qantas, Emirates, and Air New Zealand quickly adjusted their flight paths.
Australian and New Zealand authorities raised concerns about China’s short notice regarding the exercises. Australian Defense Minister Richard Marles said they received the alert through radio broadcasts picked up by planes already in the air, not through official channels. He called the situation “very disconcerting” for the flights involved.
New Zealand’s Defense Minister Judith Collins agreed and stressed the need for timely communication to ensure the safety of nearby vessels and aircraft. She pointed out that although the drills occurred in international waters, the lack of advance notice was troubling.
Unprecedented Naval Presence Raises Concerns
China deployed a naval task group near Sydney, including a cruiser, a frigate, and a supply vessel. This show of force is unusual for the region. The fleet sailed within 150 nautical miles of Sydney, which is quite close. Australia and New Zealand have been watching these ships closely since they were first detected.
Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong addressed the situation with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi. She raised the issue during a G20 meeting in Johannesburg. Wong emphasized the importance of giving proper notifications. She stressed that following international protocols is crucial to avoid future disruptions.
The Chinese naval exercises in the Tasman Sea highlight the need for clear communication between nations. Proper coordination is necessary to ensure the safety of international air and sea traffic. As China increases its maritime activities, transparency becomes even more important.
Australia and New Zealand are urging China to follow international norms. They believe this is essential for maintaining regional stability. Both countries are calling for better communication and adherence to global standards.