Chinese Navy conducts drills in Tasman Sea raising concerns for Australia and New Zealand

Chinese warships conducted live fire exercises in the Tasman Sea, prompting commercial flights to change course. The vessels were outside Australia’s exclusive economic zone but close enough to raise concerns for both Australia and New Zealand. The drills involved three Chinese naval ships, including a powerful cruiser. Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese confirmed the military was monitoring the situation, noting the ships were first detected last week. China's foreign ministry described the exercises as routine and conducted in accordance with international law. Australia’s foreign minister expressed concerns about the lack of transparency regarding the drills.