Australia, New Zealand Alarmed by Chinese Warships in Tasman Sea
nytimesFEB 14
Chinese Warship Drill Near Australia Diverts Flights
Above:Â China's first Type 054B frigate in Qingdao, east China's Shandong Province on Jan. 22, 2025Â Image copyright:Â Pu Haiyang/Xinhua via Getty Images
The Spin
Pro-China narrative
The Chinese warships' presence in South Pacific waters is a normal part of far-seas training exercises aimed at boosting operational capabilities in distant waters, fully complying with international law and maritime norms, and there is no need for concern about vessels operating in international waters.
Anti-China narrative
This unprecedented naval presence off Australia's coast represents a clear signal of China's growing military power projection capabilities and determination to normalize military operations near Australian territory, marking a significant shift in regional strategic dynamics.