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China Establishes Third Overseas Military Base in Laos

China Establishes Third Overseas Military Base in Laos

First seen 1 Oct 2026, 07:58 UTC • •
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ThreatCluster AI
ThreatCluster •October 2, 2026 at 07:06 UTC
  • •China's new airbase in Laos is its third overseas military facility.
  • •The base will support pilot training for the Laotian Air Force.
  • •The facility is positioned to enhance military cooperation between China and Laos.

China has opened a new airbase in Laos, marking its third overseas military base and second in Southeast Asia. The China-Laos Joint Support and Training Center and the China-Laos Friendship Aviation Academy at Ban Keun Airport aim to support pilot training and deepen military cooperation. The facility is jointly operated by China and Laos, with the Laotian Air Force as the primary beneficiary. The announcement was made by China's Ministry of National Defense on October 1, 2026. The base is located approximately 25 miles north of Vientiane and is built partially over a site used by the US military during the Vietnam War. Satellite imagery indicates that the runway and hangars are now operational. The MND emphasized that the base is not directed against any third party and aims to maintain regional peace and stability.

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Timeline

2026-09-30
China launches air force support center
The new air force support and training center at Ban Keun Airport aims to deepen military cooperation and support pilot training.
Scmp
2026-10-01
China announces opening of airbase in Laos
China's Ministry of National Defense confirmed the operational status of the China-Laos Joint Support and Training Center and the China-Laos Friendship Aviation Academy.
Breakingdefense

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Common questions

What is the purpose of the new airbase?
The airbase is intended to support pilot training for the Laotian Air Force and enhance military cooperation between China and Laos.
Where is the new facility located?
The facility is located at Ban Keun Airport, approximately 25 miles north of Vientiane, Laos.
Is this facility aimed at any specific country?
According to China's Ministry of National Defense, the facility is not directed against any third party.