China Conducts Military Drill Near Australia, Prompting Airspace Adjustments

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The Australian Defence Force is monitoring a rare military exercise conducted by China in the Tasman Sea, prompting airlines to divert flights between Australia and New Zealand. The exercise, involving three Chinese naval vessels— a frigate, a cruiser, and a supply tanker— was noted as "unusual" by Australian officials, particularly as the ships approached within 150 nautical miles of Sydney earlier this week. Following the announcement of potential live fire exercises, Qantas Airlines temporarily adjusted flight routes, stating they are working with the Australian government to gauge the situation.

China’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed that the exercises are international law-compliant and conducted professionally. Australia’s Prime Minister Anthony Albanese stated there is no imminent danger from the drill, while Defence Minister Richard Marles highlighted the lack of direct communication from China regarding the exercise. This drill follows recent defense dialogues between Australia and China amid escalating maritime tensions, including a prior incident involving a Chinese fighter jet and an Australian military aircraft in the South China Sea.

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