Airlines warned as Chinese navy holds live-fire exercises off Australia
Australia expressed concern to China on Friday over the short notice given by the Chinese navy that it would hold a live-fire exercise in international waters between Australia and New Zealand, forcing airlines to divert flights.
Australia expressed concern to China on Friday over the short notice given by the Chinese navy that it would hold a live-fire exercise in international waters between Australia and New Zealand, forcing airlines to divert flights, Defense Minister Richard Marles said.
Airlines including Qantas and Air New Zealand modified flight paths between Australia and New Zealand on Friday after China broadcast a message that its People’s Liberation Army Navy would hold live-fire exercises off the New South Wales coast in international waters, a rare event.
A People’s Liberation Army Navy frigate, cruiser and replenishment vessel last week entered Australia’s maritime approaches, and traveled down Australia’s east coast this week, monitored by the navies and air forces of Australia and New Zealand.
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese told reporters on Friday afternoon that it was unclear whether live fire had been used by the Chinese navy, and the Australian defense force had advised there was no imminent risk of danger to Australian or New Zealand assets.
“China issued, in accordance with practice, an alert that it would be conducting these activities, including the potential use of live fire. It’s outside of Australia’s exclusive economic zone,” he said, indicating it was at least 200 nautical miles offshore.
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