Chinese Naval Drills Near Australia Prompt Airline Flight Diversions

Australia monitors Chinese warships conducting live-fire exercises in international waters off its east coast, advising caution for commercial flights.

Three Chinese naval vessels, including a frigate, cruiser, and supply tanker, have been conducting live-fire exercises in international waters near Australia, about 150 nautical miles from Sydney.
Australia's Defence Department and Airservices Australia issued warnings to commercial airlines, leading to flight path adjustments by Qantas, Jetstar, Virgin Australia, and Air New Zealand.
Australian and New Zealand military forces are closely monitoring the Chinese ships, describing the activity as unusual but compliant with international law.
The drills follow recent tensions between Australia and China, including an incident where a Chinese fighter jet released flares near an Australian surveillance plane over the South China Sea.
Officials in both Australia and New Zealand have raised concerns about the transparency surrounding the exercises and are engaging in diplomatic discussions with China.