China Stages War Games at New Overseas Military Base

Published: Tuesday, May 13, 2025 at 8:37 am

China Flexes Military Muscle with War Games at New Cambodian Base

China has kicked off military exercises at its newly established overseas base in Cambodia, signaling a growing global military presence and heightened activity near the contested South China Sea. The "Golden Dragon 2025" exercise, scheduled for mid- to late May, involves counter-terrorism operations, humanitarian aid, and disaster relief activities across land, sea, and air.

The joint logistics and training center, located at Ream Naval Base, is a collaborative effort between China and Cambodia. This marks the first major bilateral exercise supported by the base, with Chinese forces, including the amphibious landing ship CNS Changbaishan, already deployed. The Changbaishan, capable of carrying hundreds of marines and amphibious vehicles, underscores China's amphibious warfare capabilities. Photos also reveal the presence of Chinese corvettes, indicating a sustained military presence at the base.

The Pentagon has previously highlighted China's strategic interest in expanding its overseas logistics and basing infrastructure to project military power further afield. Cambodia, a key recipient of Chinese investment through the Belt and Road Initiative, provides a strategic location for China's growing influence in the region. The exercises come amidst ongoing tensions in the South China Sea, where China's territorial claims overlap with those of neighboring countries.

BNN's Perspective:

While China's military expansion raises concerns, the focus on humanitarian aid and disaster relief alongside counter-terrorism operations suggests a multifaceted approach. The exercises, while demonstrating China's capabilities, could also be seen as a way to build relationships and project a positive image. The situation warrants careful monitoring, but a measured response is crucial to avoid escalating tensions in the region.

Keywords: China, Cambodia, military exercise, Ream Naval Base, South China Sea, Golden Dragon 2025, amphibious warfare, CNS Changbaishan, Belt and Road Initiative, Pentagon, counter-terrorism, humanitarian aid, disaster relief, overseas base, Chinese military, Type 071, Type 056A, corvettes, global military presence, territorial claims, joint logistics, training center, China-Cambodia relations, military expansion, Southeast Asia, Asia Pacific, international relations, geopolitics

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