China has deployed a record number of warships around Australia over the past two weeks, marking an unprecedented level of activity by the country’s navy. This move is part of China’s efforts to transform its navy into a formidable blue water force capable of projecting hard and soft power in the region.
The Chinese navy, now the largest in the world by number of vessels, has been steadily increasing its presence in Australia’s vicinity over the past few years. Vessels such as warships, replenishment ships, intelligence-gathering ships, survey ships, satellite support ships, and hospital ships have all been spotted in the area.
China’s naval deployment around Australia is not unique, but it does send a strong signal of the country’s ability and intent to project power in the region. Similar deployments have occurred before, including an October show of force in the South Pacific where two warships were sent to Port Vila in Vanuatu.
The addition of replenishment ships to Chinese action groups enables greater force projection into the Pacific. Intelligence ships from China are also regular visitors to the region, with one vessel even traveling as far as Sydney after conducting operations in the Gulf of Aden.
China’s navy has been increasingly active in the Pacific, sending warships and research vessels to several countries including Papua New Guinea, Fiji, Tonga, Kiribati, Solomon Islands, and East Timor. The country also deploys hospital ships like the Peace Ark to provide health services as part of its soft-power diplomacy.
China’s naval activities in the region are consistent with international law, but the increasing number and variety of vessels poses a significant challenge for regional militaries. As China continues to expand its military presence, monitoring and managing its growing navy will require increased cooperation and resources from regional partners.
Source: https://www.realcleardefense.com/articles/2025/03/10/chinas_navy_sends_a_steady_drumbeat_of_ships_around_australia_1096458.html