Australia Warns Airlines as Chinese Warships Conduct Live-Fire Exercise in Tasman Sea

International International News

Posted by NewAdmin on 2025-02-21 08:43:19 |

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Australia has warned airlines flying between its airports and New Zealand about potential hazards due to Chinese warships conducting a live-fire exercise in the Tasman Sea. The warning, issued by Airservices Australia, followed reports that three Chinese naval vessels—the frigate Hengyang, cruiser Zunyi, and replenishment vessel Weishanhu—were engaged in military drills off the Australian east coast. 

According to Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, China had provided notice that its warships might fire live weapons during the exercise. However, Australian defense officials were uncertain if any live fire actually occurred, and the risk has since passed. Albanese assured that there was no immediate danger to Australian or New Zealand assets. 

The exercise led several international flights to modify their routes, with pilots from Qantas, Virgin Australia, and Emirates diverting their courses after hearing a broadcast warning from one of the Chinese warships. Air New Zealand confirmed that it had adjusted flight paths as needed without disrupting operations. 

Australian officials have been monitoring the Chinese fleet with military ships and P-8 Poseidon surveillance aircraft. Foreign Minister Penny Wong stated that Australia was in discussions with China regarding notification and transparency around its naval activities, especially live-fire drills. She is expected to raise the issue with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi at a G20 meeting in South Africa.

Steve Cornell, Vice President of the Australian and International Pilots Association, criticized the location of the Chinese exercise, saying that while pilots regularly deal with obstacles such as military drills and space debris, the Chinese navy could have chosen a less disruptive location. Chinese naval task groups rarely venture this far south, making the exercise notable as a demonstration of China’s growing naval presence and capabilities. Despite concerns, Albanese confirmed that the drill was conducted legally in international waters outside Australia's exclusive economic zone.

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