A New Zealand navy vessel, HMNZS Aotearoa, has been closely monitored by seven Chinese warships during its recent missions in East Asia, as confirmed by the Defence Force. The Aotearoa was deployed to the East China Sea and Yellow Sea last month, undertaking surveillance initiatives aimed at reinforcing United Nations Security Council sanctions against North Korea.
Operating alongside a P-8A Poseidon aircraft, the Aotearoa is part of Operation Whio, which targets the nuclear and ballistic missile efforts of North Korea. During its navigation through the Taiwan Strait, the ship was tracked by the Chinese fleet, although the Defence Force noted that the warships maintained a “safe and professional distance” throughout the operation.
The Aotearoa conducted its mission across a significant area of 410,000 square kilometres, utilizing its SH-2G Seasprite helicopter to disrupt two suspected illicit ship-to-ship transfers, identify seven vessels of interest, hail 49 merchant vessels, and issue 79 deterrence messages. Meanwhile, the Poseidon aircraft observed five ship-to-ship transfers, identified 59 vessels of interest, and sent out 19 deterrence communications.
In addition to its operations, the Aotearoa collaborated with naval forces from Canada, France, and Japan, while also providing replenishment services for Australian and U.S. naval vessels. Commanding Officer Rob Welford of the HMNZS Aotearoa noted the effectiveness of the operation, stating, “Through maritime patrol, airborne surveillance, and international cooperation, we delivered tangible impact — from deterring illicit activity to supporting allied ships at sea. The professionalism of our own crews and those of our partner nations was evident throughout.”
This operation serves to reinforce New Zealand and its allies’ commitment to ensuring maritime security and stability amidst ongoing regional threats. The collaboration is a testament to the significance of international partnerships in working towards shared objectives of peace and security, highlighting a united front in confronting challenges in the maritime sphere.