From Foreign Policy · Joseph Rachman · · 2m
China Opens Military Base in Laos
China’s new military base in Laos boosts regional influence but sparks concerns over Southeast Asian security.
In brief
China’s new military base in Laos boosts regional influence but sparks concerns over Southeast Asian security. China has opened its first overseas air force base in Laos, raising fears of increased military presence in Southeast Asia. Originally reported by Foreign Policy.
China Opens Military Base in Laos
China has established a military base in Laos, its third overseas military base and second in Southeast Asia.
Location and Purpose
The China-Laos Joint Support and Training Center and China-Laos Friendship Aviation Academy are situated at an airport about 30 miles from Laos’s capital, Vientiane.
Satellite Evidence
Satellite imagery shows construction started last year, making this China’s first overseas air force base.
Military Context
China’s global military presence is dwarfed by the United States, but it has opened bases in Djibouti and Cambodia since 2017.
Strategic Implications
China-focused commentator Rudy Lu suggests the base will shape Laos’s air force and encourage purchases of Chinese equipment.
Thailand’s Stance
Thailand, a U.S. treaty ally, says it will monitor developments but cannot interfere with Laos’s sovereign decision.
Vietnam’s Concerns
Vietnam fears China’s growing presence in Laos could give it leverage in regional crises, especially given historical tensions.
Taiwan’s Perspective
Taiwan worries the base could help China intercept U.S. Air Force assets flying across Indochina from Diego Garcia.
Limited Impact
Experts suggest the base may not significantly boost China’s power projection capabilities compared to bases in southern China.
Regional Reactions
Thailand’s deputy prime minister said the U.S. warned it but Thailand cannot interfere with Laos’s decision to host the base.
ASEAN Summit Rumors
Rumors spread that U.S. President Trump may attend the next ASEAN summit in Manila, Philippines, in November.
Sumatran Rhinos
Two Sumatran rhinos in Way Kambas National Park are pregnant and due to give birth in May 2027.
Myanmar Deportations
Malaysia deported 1,476 Myanmar nationals, including those wearing shirts with 'I [heart] Myanmar' and 'Happy Voyage Back to Motherland' phrases.
Indonesian Cabinet
Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto reshuffled his cabinet, appointing his third finance minister and replacing foreign minister Sugiono with Arrmanatha Nasir.
Regional Tensions
China’s military presence in Laos raises concerns for Vietnam and Taiwan, as both countries view the region as critical to their security.
What Happens Next
Thailand will monitor developments closely while balancing its relationships with both China and the United States.
The short version
China has opened its first overseas air force base in Laos, raising fears of increased military presence in Southeast Asia.
