Concerns are rising in Washington regarding China’s military expansion in Cambodia, particularly at the Ream naval base on the Gulf of Thailand. Recent satellite images reveal the presence of Chinese Navy A56 corvettes, raising suspicions about Beijing's intentions to establish a more significant military footprint beyond its fortified positions in the South China Sea.
Despite Cambodia’s government repeatedly denying the existence of a permanent foreign military base—citing a constitutional ban—the evidence suggests an increasing Chinese presence. The corvettes have been docked at a newly constructed pier, designed to accommodate larger vessels, alongside various facilities built by China for naval use.
Policy analysts in Cambodia assert that Ream remains a Cambodian base. Seun Sam from the Royal Academy of Cambodia stated, "Please understand this is a Cambodian, not a Chinese base... We need more training from outside friends, especially from China."
PermalinkChanging Partnerships
The U.S. previously provided military assistance to Ream, but support diminished after Cambodia banned its main opposition party in 2017, leading the Cambodian government to pivot toward China. In recent years, joint military exercises have shifted from U.S. partnerships to the "Golden Dragon" exercises with China, and significant expansions funded by Chinese investments have occurred at Ream, including the construction of a new pier.
Despite Cambodian assertions that the Chinese vessels are merely for training and preparation for exercises, U.S. officials remain wary of the site’s expansion. The base now features new dry docks, warehouses, and facilities, with satellite images documenting the developments over time.
PermalinkInternational Concerns
In 2019, a leaked report suggested that Cambodia and China agreed to lease 77 hectares of the Ream base for 30 years, allowing the stationing of military personnel and equipment. Although the Cambodian government dismissed this claim, it is notable that only Chinese warships have docked at the new pier, while other nations have been redirected to different ports.
Analysts argue that while Ream may not technically qualify as a permanent base, the continuous docking of Chinese ships indicates a pattern that may allow for rotational access by foreign forces without violating Cambodia's constitutional ban.
PermalinkNeighboring Countries' Reactions
A long-term Chinese presence at Ream raises alarm for Cambodia’s neighbors, Thailand and Vietnam. They view the base as a potential strategic threat, especially given the ongoing territorial disputes in the South China Sea. Thailand’s national security officials have expressed concerns about a Chinese military foothold so close to their naval operations.
However, both Thailand and Vietnam are cautious about voicing their apprehensions publicly. Thailand values its economic relationship with China, while Vietnam aims to avoid stirring anti-Chinese sentiment within Cambodia.
PermalinkFuture Implications
Strategists from the U.S. and India are also wary of the implications of a Chinese base in Cambodia, especially regarding future military capabilities in the Indian Ocean. Nevertheless, most analysts believe China is still far from achieving military parity with the U.S.
According to Greg Poling, director of the CSIS Asia Maritime Transparency Initiative, the Ream base is not likely to enhance China’s naval reach significantly. However, it could serve as a critical point for intelligence gathering and monitoring regional developments.
In summary, while Cambodia insists that Ream remains under its sovereignty, the evidence suggests that China is expanding its military presence in the region, provoking both regional and international concerns about the implications for security and power dynamics in Southeast Asia.