Chinese Navy Conducts Live-Fire Drills in the Pacific Amid Regional Tensions

In February 2025, the Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA) Navy carried out a series of combat drills in the Pacific Ocean, which involved live-fire exercises and were reported extensively by Chinese media. The exercises featured a naval formation that included the Type 055 destroyer Zunyi, the Type 054A frigate Hengyang, and the Type 903 replenishment ship Weishanhu, focusing on coordinated operations and combat readiness.

According to China Central Television (CCTV), the drills were designed to improve the warships' effectiveness in various scenarios, including replenishment at sea. During one simulation, the Zunyi and Hengyang successfully responded to a mock aerial target and neutralized it with a shot from the close-in weapon system. Furthermore, the Hengyang engaged a simulated ship target, demonstrating the formation’s ability to respond rapidly and maintain combat status.

These exercises, which took place over several days, led to heightened attention from Australian and New Zealand media. Reports indicated that the PLA vessels were seen sailing near Sydney, prompting warnings to commercial pilots to avoid the airspace due to the military drills. In response to criticisms from Australia regarding the transparency of the drills, a spokesperson for China's Defense Ministry clarified that the live-fire training was conducted in international waters and complied with international laws.

Chinese officials emphasized that the military exercises were routine and aimed at safeguarding China's trade interests. Both Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon acknowledged that these actions conform to international law. Chinese military experts pointed out that such naval operations in distant waters are becoming increasingly common and urged other countries to adapt to this reality.