In a world where geopolitical tensions often simmer just below the surface, the presence of foreign military vessels near national borders can be a cause for heightened alertness and concern. This is the situation currently facing the nation, as a trio of Chinese warships has been spotted off the east coast, prompting a vigilant response from the Australian Defence Force (ADF).
The ADF has been keeping a ‘close watch’ on the movements of two People’s Liberation Army-Navy (PLA-N) frigates and a replenishment vessel that were initially detected in the Coral Sea, off Queensland. As these ships crept further south, they were observed approximately 150 nautical miles (278km) east of Sydney, a development that Deputy Prime Minister and Defence Minister Richard Marles described as ‘unusual.’
While the presence of these vessels may be disconcerting to some, it’s important to note that the Chinese warships are not engaging in any activity that violates international law. They are operating within international waters, where maritime law allows for the freedom of navigation. However, the unusual nature of their mission near Australian shores has not gone unnoticed.
With this, Mr Marles has assured the public that the ADF is not taking the situation lightly.
‘We are keeping [a] close watch on them, and we will be making sure that we watch every move and whenever this mission is over on the part of the Chinese task group, we will assess everything we have seen to make a proper assessment of exactly what they were trying to achieve through this mission,’ he stated during an interview with Sky News.
In response to the situation, Mr Marles has directed the deployment of naval and air assets to monitor the Chinese flotilla’s every move. This proactive stance underscores the ADF’s commitment to national security and the protection of the country’s sovereignty.
It’s worth noting that this is reportedly the furthest south that Chinese naval vessels have navigated along Australia’s east coast. The ADF’s update emphasised that it ‘routinely monitors’ all ship activity within Australia’s Exclusive Economic Zone and ‘respects’ the right to freedom of navigation as recognised internationally.
While the Chinese warships do not pose an immediate threat, the ADF’s efforts to understand the intentions behind their presence are crucial.
‘They’re not a threat in the sense that they are engaging in accordance with international law. But it is important that we understand exactly what is happening here,’ Mr Marles clarified.
He continued, ‘We will make sure that we look at every move they make to have a very clear assessment of what… the Chinese are seeking to achieve.’
The ADF’s surveillance is not only about ensuring that international laws are being followed but also about maintaining a strategic awareness of the activities of other nations in the region. By closely observing these warships, the ADF can gather valuable intelligence that could inform future defence strategies and diplomatic engagements.
As the situation continues to unfold, the ADF’s monitoring of the Chinese warships will remain a critical aspect of the national defence posture.
We at YourLifeChoices understand the importance of staying informed about national security matters. How do you feel about the presence of foreign warships near Australian waters? Let us know in the comments below.
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Still trying to stir up fear of China, eh? Trump is by far the biggest threat to our safety right now.