Australia has urged airlines to avoid airspace near the Tasman Sea following warnings of potential Chinese naval live-fire exercises. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese confirmed the drills occurred in international waters, prompting Virgin Australia, Qantas, and Air New Zealand to reroute flights temporarily.
The Chinese warships—identified as frigate Hengyang, cruiser Zunyi, and replenishment vessel Weishanhu—were monitored by Australian and New Zealand P-8 Poseidon aircraft. 'Military exercises in this region are inconsistent with typical operations,' Albanese stated, noting no immediate threat to national assets.
While the risk has passed, this deployment underscores China's expanding naval reach,said a defense analyst. Airservices Australia issued alerts after detecting radio warnings from one warship, though officials remain uncertain if live weapons were fired.
Key updates:
- Air New Zealand adjusted flight paths preemptively
- Virgin Australia followed regulator guidance without disclosing diversions
- Pilots reported emergency broadcasts detailing imminent drills
Capt. Steve Cornell of the Australian Pilots Association criticized China's choice of location: While military drills are routine, selecting high-traffic zones creates unnecessary risks.
Foreign Minister Penny Wong plans to address the incident during G20 talks in South Africa, emphasizing regional stability concerns. Analysts highlight the rare southern deployment as a strategic flex amid intensified Indo-Pacific rivalry.
