China is joining the US-led Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) military war games this year but chose to operate under the Australian Command in the world's largest international maritime warfare involving 20 nations.

The People's Liberation Army (PLA) has asked Australia to take them under their wing as they participate in US-led international military exercises that will be held in July in the Hawaiian Islands, according to the Sydney Morning Herald.

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Beijing's decision to work under Australian Command comes amid the ongoing search for Malaysia Airlines MH370 which is being coordinated by Australia.

Reports said that China rarely participates in international war games and this will be its first time to operate under a Western Navy. Reports added that China's request to operate under Australia was made through defense channels last week.

"We welcome the positive contributions it has made to date, and look forward to continuing to work together to enhance mutual understanding and facilitate transparency, and build trust throughout the region," Australian Defense Minister David Johnston said.

It would be the first time that China will be working under a Western Navy in a military exercise but reports said it had already joined in a multinational humanitarian effort in military exercises last year.

The RIMPAC exercises, participated in by over 25,000 personnel, are spearheaded by the United States and conducted twice a year.

Details of the participating nations have yet to be disclosed, but defense officials said Japan, China's rival, will be participating.