China’s aggressive military actions continue to challenge Australia’s national security, with the latest incidents putting Prime Minister Anthony Albanese’s approach to relations with Beijing under intense scrutiny. A powerful Chinese naval flotilla operating close to Australia underscores the growing threat posed by China’s military expansion.
On 11 February, a Chinese J-16 fighter released flares just 30 metres in front of an Australian P-8A Poseidon surveillance aircraft in what the Department of Defence has described as an ‘unsafe and unprofessional’ act. This marks the fifth known incident of dangerous Chinese military behaviour towards Australian forces since 2022, highlighting a pattern of escalating provocation.
The same day, the Department of Defence confirmed the presence of a Chinese naval task group operating in Australia’s northeastern maritime approaches. The flotilla included a Jiangkai-class frigate, a Fuchi-class replenishment vessel, and, most concerning, a Type 055 Renhai-class cruiser. The Renhai-class warship, one of the most formidable in China’s arsenal, is armed with 112 vertical-launch missile cells capable of carrying anti-ship, surface-to-air, and anti-submarine weapons. This marks the first known instance of a vessel of its class operating so close to Australia.
While these ships are legally in international waters, their presence sends a clear message: China is projecting its military power into Australia’s backyard. The Chinese navy has increasingly extended its operations beyond the First Island Chain, with warships appearing off the West Australian coast, transiting through the Torres Strait, and monitoring Australian military exercises. These moves suggest Beijing is intent on demonstrating its ability to challenge Australia’s security.
Moreover, China’s military is extending its unsafe and coercive tactics beyond the South China Sea. The RAAF must now anticipate further aggressive encounters with Chinese aircraft while patrolling international airspace. Given Beijing’s track record, Australia’s Defence Force must prepare for potential scenarios in which an aircraft is forced down or worse.
Despite these provocations, the Australian government’s response remains cautious. Defence Minister Richard Marles has reaffirmed that Australia respects freedom of navigation and expects other nations to do the same. However, this diplomatic stance appears ineffective in deterring Chinese aggression.
The question remains: What is the Albanese government doing to address this growing threat? While the government has committed to AUKUS and increasing defence spending, Australia must take a firmer stand. Strategic deterrence, stronger alliances, and a clear response to repeated military intimidation are necessary.
China’s actions make it clear that polite diplomatic statements are not enough. If Beijing is willing to apply pressure on smaller nations while cautiously engaging the United States, Canberra must rethink its strategy. Otherwise, Australia risks becoming an easy target in China’s broader geopolitical ambitions.
