New Zealand reports Chinese naval vessel conducts live-fire drill in international waters

A Chinese naval task force conducted a live-fire drill in international waters between New Zealand and Australia on February 22. This was the second drill in two days, prompting New Zealand to alert commercial airlines again. New Zealand's Defence Minister confirmed that live rounds were fired from the Zunyi's main gun during the exercise. Authorities are working with the Civil Aviation Authority to ensure aircraft safety in the area. Australia expressed concerns over the lack of adequate notice for the drills. While China stated the exercises were safe and professional, it did not clarify the use of live ammunition during the previous day's drill.