China’s Fearsome Live-Fire Drills: What New Zealand and Australia Need to Know

Hong Kong
CNN

New Zealand recently expressed concern over Chinese warships conducting live-fire drills nearby. These exercises, which took place last week, were a big show of military power. Analysts suggest that these moves are part of China’s efforts to develop a navy capable of operating globally.

The Chinese Navy held two live-fire drills in the Tasman Sea, located between Australia and New Zealand. This led to some passenger flights needing to change their routes, stirring alarm among officials in both nations.

Judith Collins, New Zealand’s defense minister, noted the drills were extraordinary. She mentioned that such a powerful task force had not been seen before engaging in these activities. Collins highlighted the advanced capabilities of the weapons used, including a vessel with 112 vertical launch cells and a missile range of about 540 nautical miles.

According to Chinese state media, Western countries should become accustomed to these military exercises occurring in their vicinity. Song Zhongping, a Chinese military expert, indicated that the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) Navy is set to increase such operations not only along China’s coasts but also in international waters.

Australia’s Prime Minister Anthony Albanese acknowledged that while China’s drills were legal, the country could have provided more advance notice. During a meeting in Johannesburg with her Chinese counterpart, Australia’s Foreign Minister Penny Wong sought clarification regarding the drills.

In response, China’s Defense Ministry criticized Australia for making “unreasonable accusations” about the drills. The ministry claimed they had issued prior safety notices and that the activities adhered to international laws and did not pose a threat to air traffic.

However, Collins emphasized that the warning given to civil aviation was insufficient, being provided just a few hours in advance instead of the recommended 12 to 24 hours. This short notice resulted in flights being rerouted unexpectedly.

She also mentioned that the Chinese ships were around 280 nautical miles east of Tasmania and that these vessels are currently being monitored closely by a New Zealand naval frigate.

Interestingly, New Zealand’s Deputy Prime Minister, Winston Peters, is set to visit China soon at the invitation of Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, which may indicate ongoing diplomatic engagement between the nations despite the recent tensions.