Key Takeaways:

• China conducted live-fire naval drills in international waters, prompting concerns from both Australia and New Zealand.
• Australia, led by Defense Minister Richard Marles, criticized China for insufficient notification, affecting commercial air traffic.
• China accused Australia of exaggerating the situation, asserting that their actions adhered to international law.
• The exercises coincide with ongoing military tensions in the Asia-Pacific region.

Beijing recently conducted live-fire naval drills off the coasts of Australia and New Zealand, escalating tensions in the region and prompting concerns from both governments regarding airspace safety. On February 21, China alerted Australia about potential live fire exercises in international waters, which led to warnings for commercial flights to divert their routes. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese reassured the public that there was no imminent threat to Australian or New Zealand assets arising from the drills. However, he acknowledged that the notification from China was brief, adding that such activities typically require a 12 to 24-hour notice for proper coordination with civil aviation to avoid disruptions ([Channel News Asia](https://www.channelnewsasia.com/world/australia-china-live-fire-naval-drills-flights-affacted-eastern-coast-4951691)).

The situation intensified on February 22, when a Chinese cruiser reportedly fired live rounds during a separate exercise in the Tasman Sea, noting that New Zealand naval forces observed these actions. The live-fire drill prompted further alerts to commercial flights, raising safety alarms among airlines operating in the region ([Reuters](http://reuters.com/world/asia-pacific/australia-says-china-failed-explain-inadequate-navy-live-fire-notice-2025-02-22/)). Minister Marles expressed dissatisfaction over the delayed notifications from China, deeming them "disconcerting" for aviation safety given that flights were already in the air when the warnings were issued.

In response to these claims, the Chinese defense ministry vehemently criticized Australia for what they labeled "hyping up" the situation. Defense spokesman Wu Qian stated that China's exercises complied with international laws and insisted that prior safety notices had been issued to mitigate risks to international aviation ([South China Morning Post](https://www.scmp.com/news/china/military/article/3299801/china-slams-australia-hyping-pla-live-fire-drills-its-coast)).

While Beijing regards its naval drills as standard operational conduct, Australia and New Zealand emphasize the importance of cooperative engagement and adequate communication surrounding naval operations in the contested waters of the Asia-Pacific. The recent incidents follow a series of military maneuvers and confrontations between Chinese forces and Australian assets, underscoring the tension in bilateral relationships as both sides navigate the complexities of international maritime law and military conduct.

'As we continue to monitor these developments, the importance of diplomatic dialogue cannot be overstated, particularly in light of the strategic challenges faced by all parties in this region,' encapsulated a senior official's viewpoint amid rising military activities.

For more detailed coverage, visit the original articles on Channel News Asia, Reuters, and South China Morning Post.