Three Chinese warships near Sydney monitored by Australian Defence Force amid rising tensions and strategic implications.

In Short

Three Chinese navy ships have been spotted near Sydney, and the Australian Defence Force is monitoring them. Experts believe this signals China’s intention to strengthen its military presence in the region, prompting calls for increased Australian defence spending.

The Australian Defence Force has stated that these vessels are being monitored as part of routine procedures.

The flotilla includes the Jiangkai-class frigate Hengyang, the Renhai-class Cruiser Zunyi, and the Fuchi-class replenishment vessel Weishanhu.

These ships were first identified near the northeast of Australia last week and have continued their movement down the coast.

According to a Defence Department spokesperson, the ADF routinely oversees all maritime traffic within Australia’s Exclusive Economic Zone.

Military presence

Experts believe this deployment signals an intention by China to enhance its military presence near Australia.

Professor Rory Medcalf, head of the ANU National Security College, noted that this could lead to further military engagements in the region.

He explained the necessity for Australia to increase defence spending to counteract the potential establishment of a Chinese military base in the Pacific.

The sighting of these ships occurs during a visit by Admiral Samuel Paparo, commander of the US Indo-Pacific Command, who is in discussions with Australian leaders.

Recent tensions have also emerged from a dangerous encounter involving a Chinese jet and an Australian military aircraft in the South China Sea.