China To Give Cambodia Warships Amid Naval Base Expansion

This satellite photo taken by Planet Labs PBC shows two Chinese corvettes docked at the Ream Naval Base, Cambodia, on the Gulf of Thailand, May 8, 2024. (Planet Labs PBC via AP, File)

Cambodia's Defense Ministry announced that China will be providing two Type 56 corvettes to the Cambodian navy. These warships are currently stationed at the Ream Naval Base, which is undergoing expansion with funding from China. The Type 56 corvettes are smaller vessels used for coastal patrols and will be delivered to Cambodia next year.

Reports suggest that China is also involved in expanding the facilities at the Ream Naval Base, including a new pier capable of accommodating larger naval vessels. Concerns have been raised about China potentially establishing a permanent naval presence in the Gulf of Thailand through its activities at the base.