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This article was generated using artificial intelligence (LMStudio) on 2025-03-29T22:49:14.594173. The original article can be found at https://www.defensenews.com/global/asia-pacific/2025/03/28/aussie-spy-planes-worked-overtime-during-nearby-chinese-naval-drills/.
In response to recent naval exercises conducted by China near Australia, both Australia and New Zealand deployed their maritime patrol aircraft for extended surveillance operations. This deployment occurred following the passage of three People’s Liberation Army Navy (PLAN) vessels around the Australian continent last month. The event highlighted a capability shift as surface combatant numbers in both nations have decreased.
During the Avalon International Airshow 2025, held in Melbourne from March 25-30, an aircrew member confirmed that Australian Boeing P-8A Poseidon aircraft were utilized for “high-duration, high-frequency sorties” while the Chinese naval ships were in the region. The P-8A is a versatile platform capable of extended missions; with aerial refueling, these flights can last up to 20 hours. The Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) currently operates twelve of these aircraft and anticipates receiving two additional units shortly. This was stated by Air Commodore Angus Porter, director general of the RAAF’s Air Combat Capability branch.
New Zealand also contributed to the monitoring efforts. The Royal New Zealand Air Force deployed its P-8A Poseidons to observe the same three Chinese vessels – specifically the Type 054A frigate Hengyang, the Type 055 cruiser Zunyi, and the Type 903 replenishment ship Weishanhu – as they transited through the Tasman Sea.
The presence of these PLAN ships and their subsequent gunnery drills between February 21-22 prompted a notable reaction in both Australia and New Zealand. The exercises resulted in approximately 50 commercial airliners being rerouted between Australia and New Zealand, underscoring the operational impact of the naval activity.