Source: CNN
“New Zealand raised fresh concerns Monday over nearby live-fire drills conducted by Chinese warships armed with ‘extremely capable’ weapons, an unprecedented show of firepower last week that analysts say are part of Beijing’s ongoing plan to build a blue-water navy with global reach. A Chinese Navy formation held two live-fire exercises in the Tasman Sea between Australia and New Zealand on Friday and Saturday, prompting passenger planes to change course mid-flight and rattling officials in both countries. … The People’s Liberation Army (PLA) Navy ships, consisting of a frigate, a cruiser and a replenishment vessel, had been sailing down the coast of Australia since mid-February, according to the Australian Defense Force.” (02/24/25)
https://www.cnn.com/2025/02/24/world/china-live-fire-drills-rattle-nz-aus-intl-hnk/index.html