Three Chinese warships are being closely monitored by Australian and New Zealand defense forces as they move unusually far south along Australia's eastern coastline, defense officials announced Thursday.
The naval group, consisting of the frigate Hengyang, cruiser Zunyi, and replenishment vessel Weishanhu, was spotted approximately 150 nautical miles east of Sydney after traveling through Southeast Asia and the Coral Sea.
"We are keeping a close watch on them, and we will make sure we are watching every move," said Australian Defense Minister Richard Marles, noting that while the presence is unusual, it's not unprecedented.
Both Australian and New Zealand military forces are tracking the vessels using naval ships and aircraft. The Chinese warships are operating in international waters within Australia's exclusive economic zone, where they have the legal right to be present.
Neither country has received information from China about the purpose of this naval deployment or its future plans. The Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson in Beijing said they were not aware of the situation when questioned.
"Without knowing exactly where the ships are going, the point of this deployment appears to be demonstrating China's capability to operate in our maritime domain," said Jennifer Parker, an expert from Australia's National Security College and former naval officer.
The monitoring operation comes amid recent tensions between Australian and Chinese forces. Last week, Australia protested what it called an unsafe interaction over the South China Sea, where a Chinese fighter allegedly released flares that endangered an Australian surveillance aircraft.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese maintained a measured stance, stating the Chinese vessels were complying with international law while emphasizing continued observation of their movements.
The last time Chinese warships visited Australian waters was in 2019, though that voyage had received prior approval from the Australian government.