Massive Australian Naval Vessel Disrupts Connectivity Across New Zealand

Image Credits: Royal Australian Navy.

A recent publication by Stuff.co reveals that the HMAS Canberra, one of the largest vessels in the australian Navy, unintentionally disrupted wireless internet and radio services across various regions of New Zealand’s north and South Islands.This incident occurred as the ship made its way to Wellington, arriving on Thursday. While navigating along New Zealand’s coastline, its navigation radar interfered with communication signals spanning from Taranaki in the North Island to Marlborough in the South Island.

According to reports, local internet providers and radio stations had to cease operations on their channels when thay detected interference from the ship’s radar around 2:00 AM local time. The New Zealand Defense Force promptly contacted their Australian counterparts once they were informed about this disruption.

Upon realizing what was happening, HMAS Canberra switched frequencies, which effectively resolved the issue. Dan O’Grady from New Zealand’s Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment explained that various radio spectrum bands are utilized for different purposes; some are open for public use while others require licensing.The interference stemmed from a shared band that is accessible to multiple users.In Blenheim, BrianFM radio station reported having to activate its backup system just to keep broadcasting during this unusual event. Matthew Harrison, managing director of Primo communications company noted that it’s not every day a military vessel disrupts civilian technology like this. He emphasized that it wasn’t merely a minor glitch; rather it involved military-grade radar systems designed for airspace safety protocols.

Harrison remarked on how this interference moved thru their network in tandem with the ship’s journey—something he had never encountered before in his career.

References: Stuff.Co., Nine News