India’s neighbouring country China is rapidly engaged in expanding its power. China’s growing maritime power is a cause of concern for regional security. China’s claim on the South China Sea is a concern for the whole world. Now China is setting up military bases in other countries to strengthen its inroads in this region further. After building artificial islands in the South China Sea, China has now established an army base in (East African country) Djibouti.
Chinese Warships Will Get Support
Last year, some satellite images showed that China’s naval base in Djibouti was fully operational. This base is located in the Horn of Africa. This will provide support to Chinese warships deployed in the Indian Ocean region. This was a significant development, as it was the first time China had established a fully active overseas military base.
But since then, China has expanded its footprint. China’s new base in Cambodia is not far from the Malacca Strait. The Strait of Malacca is an important outpost that connects the Indian Ocean and the South China Sea. It is one of the busiest shipping lanes in the world. An estimated 25% of global trade passes through here every year. Satellite images show several new buildings, a large jetty and fencing around the base’s perimeter, reports NDTV.
The base was mentioned in a UK-based think tank Chatham House report published last week. It said, “The Cambodian naval base near Sihanoukville on the Gulf of Thailand is undergoing a dramatic transformation.” “This project, funded by China, will increase Beijing’s military access to the disputed waters of Southeast Asia,” the report said.
Sea Fight Between India and China
With over 350 warships, the Chinese Navy is the largest in the world. The number is expected to reach 460 in the next three years. In addition, there are at least 85 patrol vessels, many armed with anti-ship cruise missiles. India counters this maritime challenge with its geography and the strategically located Andaman and Nicobar Islands. India is well positioned to monitor the waters of the Indian Ocean through warships and naval reconnaissance aircraft.
Last year, a Chinese surveillance ship docked at Sri Lanka’s Hambantota port despite India’s objections. Yuan Wang is equipped with five sensors and is believed to be able to track the trajectory of India’s ballistic missiles. It can track rockets launched from Abdul Kalam Island off the coast of Odisha. Yuan Wang 5 is gone, but a companion, Yuan Wang 6, travels in the South Indian Ocean.
“Cambodia Used To Be A Neutral Country”
Former Navy Chief Admiral Arun Prakash told NDTV, “Cambodia used to be a neutral country and chose not to get too close to China, but it seems economic or financial compulsions have pushed them into China’s lap.”. Chinese are helping them to build this port so that PLA can use it when needed. I think not a big reason to worry but a reason for us to look into because we have been focusing on the subtle issues in eastern Ladakh and LAC for a long time, but the ‘bigger game’ is about to be played in the maritime domain.
