A recent satellite image has unveiled the formidable firepower of a Chinese naval flotilla currently under the watch of the Australian Defence Force (ADF).

A New Zealand-based private intelligence firm has identified the presence of People’s Liberation Army Navy (PLAN) warships using advanced satellite technology.

This week, Defence Minister Richard Marles confirmed that the ADF is actively monitoring the Chinese fleet, which was initially reported by the Australian Financial Review last Thursday.

Starboard Maritime Intelligence, a private firm, analyzed satellite images revealing that a frigate, a destroyer, a Landing Helicopter Dock ship, and a replenishment vessel have been navigating the waters of the Philippine Sea.

The company shared a satellite image on platform X, showing the flotilla approximately 260 nautical miles east of the Philippines.

“This formation represents a significant projection of expeditionary power, capable of operating untethered from shore-based ports for extended periods,” commented Starboard Maritime Intelligence.

The company’s analyst, Mark Douglas, told the ABC the PLA-N destroyer and the frigate offered defence for the flotilla, and that the frigate would be “looking for submarines that might be tracking the task group.

Marles, speaking yesterday during a visit to Papua New Guinea for a meeting with his PNG counterpart, reiterated he would not provide a “running commentary” about the Chinese task group.

“Obviously, we speak very closely with our friends and allies, and we will do that,” he said.