In a notable display of maritime reach, three Chinese warships have been detected operating approximately 150 nautical miles off the coast of Sydney, Australia. This marks an unprecedented southern venture by China’s naval forces along Australia’s eastern seaboard.
The task group comprises the Jiangkai-class frigate Hengyang, the Renhai-class cruiser Zunyi, and the Fuchi-class replenishment vessel Weishanhu. Their presence has been closely monitored by the Australian Defence Force (ADF), which has deployed naval and aerial assets to track the movements of these vessels within Australia’s Exclusive Economic Zone.
Australian Defence Minister Richard Marles acknowledged the situation, stating that while the transit occurs in international waters, it is “unusual” for Chinese naval operations to extend this far south. He emphasized Australia’s commitment to vigilant surveillance of its maritime approaches.
This development coincides with heightened tensions in the region. Recently, a Chinese fighter jet released flares near an Australian surveillance aircraft over the South China Sea, an action Australia condemned as “unsafe” and “unprofessional.”
The Chinese naval maneuvers near Australia have raised concerns about Beijing’s expanding military footprint in the Pacific. Analysts suggest that such operations may serve as strategic messaging, testing the responses of regional powers and asserting China’s maritime influence.
In response to these activities, Australia has engaged in diplomatic communications with neighboring countries, including Papua New Guinea and New Zealand, to coordinate monitoring efforts and ensure regional security. The ADF continues to assert its readiness to safeguard Australia’s sovereignty and uphold international maritime laws.
