Chinese warship drills divert flights between Australia and New Zealand

Airlines including Qantas and Emirates on Friday diverted commercial flights around the airspace between Australia and New Zealand after receiving sudden notice of a Chinese military drill potentially involving live fire. Three Chinese warships in the Tasman Sea broadcasted the last-minute radio alert Friday morning before beginning the drill, according to a report by the Australian-based ABC News. Australian Defense Minister Richard Marles said the notice came as planes were actively flying over the area, though standard practice is to give notice at least 12-24 hours in advance.

The warships first entered waters near Australia last week. They are the frigate Hengyang, cruiser Zunyi and replenishment vessel Weishanhu. Australian news reported the ships conducted their drill in international waters, and their movements seemed consistent with live fire formations—though the Australian military did not confirm use of live fire.

The drill comes just days after Australia’s defense ministry rebuked China for allowing one of its military aircraft to release flares in close proximity to a Royal Australian Air Force patrol.

How did Australia and New Zealand respond? Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong expressed concerns about China’s lack of transparency to her Chinese counterpart, Wang Yi, on Friday while both attended the G20 international forum in South Africa. New Zealand Defense Minister Judith Collins said there was no ongoing danger and she was monitoring the situation, according to a report by The New Zealand Herald. Earlier, Collins said the three warships were the most sophisticated Chinese vessels to ever come so far south.

What did China say about the situation? Foreign ministry spokesman Guo Jiakun said the drill was carried out in a safe and professional manner in accordance with international law.