Three Chinese vessels currently in international waters notified Australia’s defence department before the drillFollow our Australia news live blog for latest updatesGet our breaking news email, free app or daily news podcastChinese warships have undertaken an apparent live-fire drill in the seas between Australia and New Zealand, diverting commercial flights in the skies above.The Chinese navy notified the Australian defence department shortly before the drill on Friday. Continue reading...
Chinese warships, including the Jiangkai-class frigate Hengyang, conducted an apparent live-fire drill in international waters between Australia and New Zealand, prompting the diversion of at least three commercial flights. The Chinese navy notified Australia's defense department before the drill, and no live fire was observed, though the ships' formation changes suggested the exercise. Australia's Prime Minister Anthony Albanese stated the activity complied with international law, while Shadow Defense Minister Andrew Hastie accused China of "gunboat diplomacy." Foreign Minister Penny Wong noted the situation was evolving and that Australia was monitoring the Chinese task group closely. The Civil Aviation Authority and Airservices Australia advised airlines of the potential risk zone. The drill followed recent tensions, including a Chinese fighter jet dropping flares near an Australian military plane in the South China Sea.
