With Chinese warships stationed at Cambodia’s Ream naval base for an extended period and a significant joint military exercise conducted there in May, China’s establishment of a new overseas military facility has materialized, confirming long-standing suspicions about China’s presence in the Southeast Asian nation.
Though the extent of China’s operational access at Ream remains ambiguous, it represents China’s second foreign military base, prompting speculation that more may follow. US defense and intelligence officials, along with analysts, are monitoring numerous countries as potential future hosts for Chinese bases.
US apprehensions regarding Ream have escalated over time, particularly after Cambodia turned down US aid for repairs at the base in 2019. Subsequent reports revealed a purported undisclosed agreement granting exclusive base access to China’s People’s Liberation Army, corroborated by rapid construction activities and infrastructure alterations, including the dismantling of a US-funded building in 2020.
The modernization efforts at Ream, initiated in June 2022 and supported by China, aim to enhance its capabilities with a dry dock, an extended pier, and dredging to accommodate larger vessels. The lengthened pier, completed in early 2023, welcomed Chinese warships in December, marking the initiation of operational activities. As Chinese naval vessels continue to utilize the port infrastructure, experts anticipate a sustained rotational Chinese presence and the potential future deployment of permanent forces.
Despite Cambodian officials denying claims of a permanent Chinese base at Ream, citing constitutional restrictions on foreign bases, varied explanations have been offered for China’s presence. Chinese authorities indicated some level of access to the base in 2022. The protracted stay of Chinese warships has been rationalized as part of training exercises with Cambodian forces, emphasizing the collaborative nature of the engagement.
Based on observed developments, the Chinese outpost at Ream is shaping up as a mid-sized naval facility with diverse capabilities to sustain operational and training activities. From unit training to maritime patrols and sea-control operations, the base is envisioned to support China’s defense strategies in the region.
US officials have voiced concerns regarding the evolving nature of activities at Ream, apprehensive of potential Chinese efforts to project power across key maritime routes in the South China Sea and the Indo-Pacific. The strategic location of Ream near vital sea lanes underscores US worries about China’s growing influence and expanding military capabilities in the region.
As China expands its overseas military presence, there is a growing focus on securing strategic sea lanes and enhancing logistical support capabilities. Chinese investments in port infrastructure worldwide have raised alarms about the dual-use potential of commercial facilities for military purposes. The establishment of formal military bases offers greater operational flexibility for more complex missions, marking a significant shift in China’s defense posture.
Amid ongoing scrutiny and speculation, the future landscape of Chinese overseas bases remains a dynamic and evolving aspect of global geopolitics. Washington and other stakeholders anticipate further developments in China’s foreign basing strategy, recognizing the potential implications for regional security and power dynamics.
