New Zealand Defence Force criticized for delayed China drill notification

The New Zealand Defence Force is facing criticism for delaying notification to Australia about China's live-firing drill. Reports indicate it took nearly an hour for New Zealand to inform Australia after aviation authorities had already alerted them. Australian Defence Force chief David Johnston highlighted that communication through aviation channels was quicker than military channels. He noted that a New Zealand frigate was monitoring the Chinese flotilla during the drill. The Chinese Navy had issued an alert over emergency channels, warning vessels and flights to stay clear. This alert was first received by a Virgin Airlines flight and relayed to Air Services Australia.