China conducts surprise live-fire drills near Australia and New Zealand, diverting flights

China has conducted surprise live-fire war drills near Australia and New Zealand, prompting airlines to divert flights. The Chinese military warned airlines of the exercises, which Australian officials learned about from pilots, not directly from China. Three Chinese warships were spotted 150 nautical miles east of Sydney, reportedly engaging in maneuvers resembling live-fire drills. This lack of prior notification is unusual, as countries typically provide 12 to 24 hours' notice for such activities. China's foreign ministry confirmed the naval training in "distant waters." Despite concerns, Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese stated there was no imminent risk to Australian or New Zealand assets.