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China Projects its Naval Power off Australia’s Coast Reigniting Tensions in Indo-Pacific.
On February 25, 2025, a Chinese naval task group was detected inside Australia’s Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ), approximately 160 nautical miles east of Hobart, Tasmania. The Task Group 107, consisting of the Renhai-class cruiser Zunyi, the Jiangkai-class frigate Hengyang, and the Fuchi-class replenishment vessel Weishanhu, conducted military exercises in the area, prompting immediate responses from Australian and New Zealand authorities. According to a statement released by the Australian Department of Defence on February 25, 2025, this Chinese presence is being closely monitored due to its unusual nature and the potential risks it poses to regional security.
In a photo released by the Australian Defence Force, the People’s Liberation Army-Navy Jiangkai-class frigate Hengyang is seen navigating the Torres Strait off Australia’s coast (Picture source: Australian Defence Force)
Australia and New Zealand quickly responded by deploying maritime and aerial surveillance assets, including P-8A Poseidon patrol aircraft and the New Zealand frigate Te Kaha. However, China's lack of clear explanations regarding the mission’s objectives raises strategic concerns. Beijing has described the operation as routine exercises, while Canberra has criticized the lack of transparency, particularly regarding disruptions to civilian flights in the area.
The rationale behind this deployment remains unclear, but several possibilities are being considered. Beijing may be testing Australia’s response, gathering intelligence on allied military infrastructure, or demonstrating its ability to operate in the South Pacific. This type of maneuver also allows Chinese naval forces to conduct long-range operations and enhance logistical capabilities.
This deployment aligns with China’s broader strategy of expanding its naval presence across the Indo-Pacific. In recent years, the People’s Liberation Army Navy (PLAN) has increased its incursions in the South China Sea, around Japan, and into the Indian Ocean. The presence of a Chinese naval group this far south highlights Beijing’s intent to reshape the regional balance of power and exert strategic influence over Australia and its allies.
The security risks for Australia and the region are significant. The ability of the Chinese navy to project military force near Australia’s coastline represents a direct challenge to Canberra’s defense posture. Additionally, the absence of clear communication regarding these exercises heightens the risk of unintended incidents that could escalate tensions. Furthermore, this demonstration of military reach could encourage China to expand its presence in the South Pacific, potentially through security agreements with island nations.
This deployment adds to a series of recent incidents reflecting Beijing’s growing naval activity. Chinese intelligence-gathering vessels have previously been detected near Australian military installations, and the PLAN has expanded its blue-water operations. This trend is raising concerns among Australian defense strategists who see it as a potential challenge to the existing power balance in the Indo-Pacific, particularly in relation to the United States’ maritime dominance and the strategic flexibility of its regional allies.
In response, Australia and its partners are strengthening military and diplomatic coordination. The increased cooperation between Canberra and Wellington during this episode reflects a collective approach to regional security. Additionally, the United States, Japan, and other regional allies may step up their presence in the South Pacific to counter China’s expanding reach. The AUKUS partnership, which includes Australia’s acquisition of nuclear-powered submarines, aligns with this broader deterrence strategy.
This latest Chinese naval deployment underscores the growing strategic competition in the Indo-Pacific. The frequency and scale of China’s naval operations in the region are expected to increase, presenting ongoing challenges for Western-aligned nations. How Australia and its allies choose to respond will determine whether these activities remain within a controlled framework of geopolitical rivalry or escalate into a more serious security challenge.