NZ Government: Chinese Warships in Australian Waters Armed with Exceptionally Advanced Weapons

• Feb 24, 2025

New Zealand’s Defence Minister Judith Collins has raised concerns about Chinese warships operating off Australia’s east coast. The vessels, identified as Taskgroup 107, recently conducted two live-fire exercises in the waters between Australia and New Zealand, an action that even led to commercial flight diversions.

According to Collins, the warships were spotted about 280 nautical miles east of Tasmania and are under close observation by the New Zealand navy vessel Te Kaha. She described the task group as unprecedented in capability, noting that one ship boasts 112 vertical launch cells and is reportedly equipped with anti-ship ballistic missiles that can reach up to 540 nautical miles. However, she confirmed that these vessels are not nuclear-powered, nor do they carry nuclear weapons or missiles capable of delivering a nuclear warhead.

Collins criticized the short notice given for the drills, explaining that while the Chinese navy did notify the Australian defence department shortly before the exercise on Friday, this warning was far less than the 12-24 hours that is considered best practice. The insufficient notice resulted in the diversion of civil aviation flights, prompting further scrutiny.

During the first exercise observed by New Zealand forces, the ships adjusted their formations, deployed a target into the water, and then recovered it—a maneuver consistent with live-fire drills. The following day, it was reported that live rounds were fired from one of the warships in international waters.

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese confirmed that defence officials continue to monitor the situation, as the task group was initially observed moving south approximately 280 kilometers off Sydney. Meanwhile, Australia’s Foreign Minister Penny Wong has engaged with her Chinese counterpart to question the limited advance notice provided for the exercise.

Despite the concerns raised by New Zealand, Chinese actions are believed to be in line with international law, and the Australian Defence Force maintains that there is no immediate threat to its assets or those of New Zealand.