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BackWhy China’s new air force base in Laos could rattle Vietnam
Why China’s new air force base in Laos could rattle Vietnam
Developing
SCMP Economy1 hour agoDefense1 min readChina

Why China’s new air force base in Laos could rattle Vietnam

chinalaosban keun airport

Quick Look

China's National Defence Ministry stated that the joint support and training facility at Ban Keun Airport in Vientiane will enhance Laotian air force pilots' expertise and is not directed against any third party, emphasizing mutual respect and compliance with domestic and international law.

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Why It Matters

China has been expanding its overseas military presence, with facilities in Djibouti and reported interests elsewhere. The Ban Keun Airport facility is described as China's third overseas defence base.

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China’s National Defence Ministry said last Tuesday that the joint support and training facility at Ban Keun Airport in the Laotian capital would strengthen the expertise of local air force pilots and was “not directed against any third party”.

“The establishment and operation of the two institutions reflect mutual respect and equal consultation between China and Laos, aligning with domestic laws of both countries, as well as international law and common practices,” the ministry said in a statement.

It added that the installation, widely described as China’s third overseas defence base, “contributes to enhancing practical military cooperation, as well as promoting regional peace and stability”.

Open Questions

  • What is the exact timeline for full operational capability of the facility?
  • What specific training and support functions will the facility provide to Laotian pilots?
  • How will this facility integrate with existing Laotian military infrastructure?

Related Topics

china
OrganizationsChina's National Defence Ministry
PlacesBan Keun AirportVientianeLaos
Topicslaosban keun airportjoint support and training facilitynational defence ministryoverseas defence basemilitary cooperation
This article was originally published by SCMP Economy.

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