Chinese naval activities in the Tasman Sea prompt heightened vigilance from Australia and New Zealand as ships enter southern waters for an undisclosed mission.
Chinese Naval Presence Stirrs Concerns in Australia and New Zealand
Chinese Naval Presence Stirrs Concerns in Australia and New Zealand
Unannounced move of fleet in Tasman Sea raises geopolitical tensions.
A flotilla of Chinese navy vessels, including a powerful warship, has raised eyebrows in Australia and New Zealand after they were spotted sailing through the Tasman Sea. While their presence is deemed legal under international law, the mission remains unclear and their proximity to Sydney was described as "unusual" by local officials.
The Australian government confirmed that it has been tracking three Chinese vessels — a cruiser, a frigate, and a supply ship — since their detection near Australia's northeastern coastline last week. They were seen moving within approximately 150 nautical miles of Sydney, navigating through Australia’s exclusive economic zone but remaining outside of territorial waters. The Financial Times was among the first to report on the ships' movements.
Chinese military officials have not provided any public statements regarding the vessels in question, and attempts to contact the Chinese Embassy in Australia were met with silence. Australia's Defense Minister and Deputy Prime Minister, Richard Marles, stated in a television interview that while the ships are operating legally, their presence in such southern waters is both "not unprecedented" but certainly "unusual" nonetheless.
Marles emphasized that the Australian military is maintaining close surveillance of the ships' activities both from the sea and from the air. He assured the public that they are monitoring the situation closely and are prepared to respond to any developments.
The last notable interaction between the Australian and Chinese navies occurred in 2019 when Chinese warships docked in Sydney Harbor during a visit that was reciprocated by Australian navy ships visiting Chinese ports. In contrast, this latest appearance has left Australian officials uncertain regarding the fleet's destination or intended purpose.
