China’s Second Live Firing Exercise in Tasman Sea
China’s recent live firing exercise in the Tasman Sea has sparked concern and confusion, leaving many questioning the intentions behind this military display. Minister of Defence Judith Collins revealed that China had conducted a second round of live firing activities in the region, catching both New Zealand and Australia off guard.
Collins emphasized the importance of safety during such exercises, noting that the Chinese naval Task Group had communicated its plans for live firing activity via radio channels. This revelation came after personnel aboard the HMNZS Te Kaha frigate witnessed live rounds being fired from the Zunyi’s main gun during the exercise. The New Zealand Defence Force and Civil Aviation Authority were working together to ensure that all aircraft were notified and that safety protocols were followed. Collaboration with Australian authorities also remained a top priority.
Luxon: China’s Actions Under Scrutiny
Prime Minister Christopher Luxon shed light on the situation, expressing concern over China’s lack of prior notification to New Zealand regarding their presence and activities in the Tasman Sea. Luxon highlighted the unique composition of the Chinese naval task group, consisting of a destroyer, cruiser, frigate, and refueller. This unexpected military presence raised eyebrows, especially after commercial airline staff reported receiving radio messages from Chinese navy ships, urging them to steer clear of the exercise area.
Luxon stressed that New Zealand had not been given a clear explanation for China’s deployment of these ships or their intended course of action. Despite operating within international waters and adhering to legal protocols, the absence of detailed communication from Chinese authorities left both New Zealand and Australia in the dark about the purpose of the exercise.
Collaborative Monitoring Efforts
In response to the situation, the HMNZS Te Kaha frigate, along with P-8A Poseidon aircraft, closely monitored and tracked the movements of the Chinese fleet. Te Kaha’s crew reported observing what appeared to be live fire activity, although no definitive confirmation of such actions was made. Australian Defence Minister Richard Marles echoed New Zealand’s sentiments, emphasizing the need for transparency and open communication from China regarding their military exercises.
Australian Minister for Foreign Affairs Penny Wong met with China’s Foreign Minister Wang Yi at the G20 meeting in South Africa, urging China to provide more clarity on its naval activities in the Tasman Sea. Wong’s call for transparency and professionalism in military conduct underlines the importance of clear communication and adherence to international laws and practices.
As the situation unfolds, questions linger about China’s intentions and the implications of its military maneuvers in the Tasman Sea. The need for open dialogue, mutual understanding, and respect for international norms remains paramount in resolving tensions and maintaining stability in the region. Stay informed with our daily newsletter, Ngā Pitopito Kōrero, for the latest updates on this developing story.