Three Chinese warships have re-entered Australia’s Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) off Tasmania, conducting live-fire exercises approximately 300 km east of Hobart.
The Australian Defence Department is collaborating with New Zealand’s military to monitor the flotilla’s movements.
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The People’s Liberation Army Navy (PLAN) flotilla, comprising a destroyer, a frigate, and a replenishment vessel, initiated live-fire drills in the Tasman Sea last week.
The exercises prompted the diversion of 49 commercial flights, as the Chinese navy issued warnings to pilots via emergency radio channels.
The Australian Defence Force (ADF) was initially unaware of the drills until a Virgin Australia pilot reported the activity to Airservices Australia.
Three Chinese warships previously conducted live-fire drills off Sydney’s coast last weekend.
They entered international waters without prior notice to Australian authorities.
Peter Hartcher, Political and International Editor of The Sydney Morning Herald said China’s move was designed to make Australia “feel vulnerable”.
“It’s unusual, but it is entirely legal. The reason is that China, the government of Xi Jinping in particular, wants to make Australia feel vulnerable,” he said on The Briefing podcast.
Defence Minister Richard Marles described the presence of Chinese warships in Australia’s EEZ as unusual.
He highlighted the need for open communication to ensure regional stability.
“Australia expects all militaries operating in the region to engage transparently, maintain the highest standards of safety and professionalism,” he said.
In response, China defended its actions, asserting that the live-fire drills were conducted in international waters and complied with international law.
A Chinese Defence Ministry spokesperson said: “The relevant remarks of the Australian side are completely inconsistent with facts.”
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