A Cheng Kung-class frigate of the People's Liberation Army Navy can be seen monitoring the HMNZS Aotearoa's actions while on patrol.
A Cheng Kung-class frigate of the People's Liberation Army Navy can be seen monitoring the HMNZS Aotearoa's actions while on patrol.
A New Zealand navy ship on a patrol mission in waters around East Asia to keep an eye on North Korea’s activities in the region was shadowed by seven different Chinese warships, it has been revealed.
In helping to enforce United Nations Security Council sanctions against North Korea, the NewZealand Defence Force (NZDF) sent both the Royal New Zealand Navy and the Royal New Zealand Air Force to the region for Operation Whio last month.
Supporting the Pacific Security Maritime Exchange with the aim to “curb North Korea’s nuclear and ballistic missile programmes”, the replenishment vessel HMNZS Aotearoa and P-8A Poseidon maritime patrol aircraft carried out surveillance and deterrence activities in the international waters of the East China and Yellow Seas during November.
Patrolling a total area of 410,000sq km, the HMNZS Aotearoa’s ship’s company and embarked SH-2G Seasprite helicopter interrupted two possibly illicit ship-to-ship transfers, identified seven vessels of interest, hailed 49 merchant vessels and broadcast 79 deterrence messages via maritime radio.
Today, the NZDF also revealed that the Chinese were keeping a close watch on the Kiwi activities.
“During the operation, the ship was shadowed by seven different People’s Liberation Army (Navy) warships, which maintained a safe and professional distance throughout,” a press statement said.
A Royal New Zealand Air Force Poseidon P8-A works in partnership with the HMNZS Aotearoa during Operation Whio.
Up in the air, the crew of the P-8A Poseidon witnessed five ship-to-ship transfers, observed 59 vessels of interest and issued 19 deterrence messages.
Not operating alone in this area, the HMNZS Aotearoa’s crew worked alongside Canadian ship the HMCS Max Bernays, French vessel the FS Prairial and Japanese ships the JS Maya and the JS Hamana. The New Zealand ship also carried out replenishment at sea for Australian ship the HMAS Brisbane and the United States Navy vessel the USS Shoup, the USS Robert Smalls and the USS Milius.
“Once again, our people have demonstrated professionalism, endurance and commitment to upholding the international rules-based order,” Commander Rob Welford, commanding officer of the HMNZS Aotearoa said.
“Through maritime patrol, airborne surveillance and international co-operation, 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.”
Air Component Commander Air Commodore Andy Scott said the P-8A Poseidon’s contribution to Operation Whio was also vital.
“With its surveillance capabilities, the aircraft helps build the intelligence picture, informing the PSMX and enabling timely action.
“Our contribution to this deployment reinforces New Zealand’s strong and enduring commitment to UN sanctions enforcement and regional security.”
