China expands overseas military presence with new Laos air force centre

China has inaugurated a new air force support and training centre in Laos, expanding the country's limited overseas military presence, the Ministry of Defence announced on Tuesday. The China-Laos Joint Support and Training Centre, along with the China-Laos Friendship Aviation Academy, are now operational at Ban Keun Airport, located in the northwest Vientiane province, about 45 km north of the capital Vientiane.

The two institutions will be jointly maintained and operated by both sides, with details on personnel or equipment stationed at the airport yet to be disclosed. This development marks a strategic expansion of China's overseas military footprint in Southeast Asia, following a similar joint naval facility in Cambodia. The ministry emphasized that the construction and operation of these facilities respect both nations' laws and international norms, aiming to enhance military cooperation and regional stability.

Ban Keun Airport, previously utilized by the U.S. during the Laotian and Vietnam wars, now serves as a key strategic asset. The construction commenced in October of the previous year and reached a significant scale by September this year, with the longest runway measuring 2,000 meters. Laos' air force, with fewer than 40 aircraft primarily comprising transport helicopters and light jet trainers, has historically relied on foreign partners, notably China and Russia, for pilot training.

The close historical ties between China and Laos, coupled with the Belt and Road Initiative, have further strengthened their military collaboration.