China expands Pacific naval presence, prompting New Zealand warning of persistent threats

China has been building a vast under‑sea surveillance network, deploying at least 42 research vessels and hundreds of sensors across the Pacific, Indian and Arctic oceans to map temperature, salinity and bathymetry for improved sonar and submarine operations. The program, described as the “Transparent Ocean Project,” includes deployments east of Japan, the Philippines, Guam and around the Indian Ocean’s strategic corridors.

New Zealand’s Defence Force and Ministry of Foreign Affairs warned in a December 2025 report that Chinese ballistic‑missile tests and naval forays are becoming a “persistent” feature of the Pacific security environment. The document cites a February 2025 transit of a People’s Liberation Army task group through the Tasman Sea and a September 2024 inter‑continental ballistic missile launch into the Pacific. It notes that the task group’s live‑fire exercises did not follow international best‑practice notifications, forcing several commercial airlines to change routes. Chinese deployments also include hospital ships, large amphibious vessels for humanitarian aid and “space‑support” ships that track rocket launches and missile activity.

Wellington officials, in close contact with Australian counterparts, are maintaining operational awareness of these vessels. The 15‑page report was sent to Prime Minister Christopher Luxon and relevant ministers. U.S. naval intelligence has similarly highlighted the growing Chinese under‑sea and surface capabilities as a challenge to regional maritime security.