China’s growing military ambitions in South and Southeast Asia have raised fresh concerns for India, following a recent Pentagon report that flags Beijing’s interest in establishing overseas military facilities. According to the assessment, China is exploring options for military access or bases in countries such as Bangladesh and Myanmar, a move that could significantly alter the regional security landscape.
The report suggests that China’s objective is to expand the operational reach of the People’s Liberation Army by securing strategic locations near key maritime routes and along sensitive borders.
In Bangladesh, any potential Chinese military presence would be particularly worrying for India due to the country’s proximity to India’s eastern frontier and the Siliguri Corridor, the narrow stretch of land that connects mainland India with its northeastern states. A foreign military footprint so close to this strategic corridor could pose long-term security challenges.
Myanmar is another area of concern. China already holds considerable influence there through infrastructure projects, economic investments and strategic cooperation.
A military facility in Myanmar would give Beijing greater access to the Bay of Bengal and enhance its ability to monitor and potentially influence naval movement in the region. Combined with a presence in Bangladesh, this would tighten China’s strategic arc around India’s eastern and northeastern borders.
The Pentagon report notes that China often frames such facilities as logistics hubs, joint development projects or dual-use infrastructure tied to commercial investments. However, analysts argue these sites could easily be adapted for intelligence gathering, refuelling, surveillance and rapid deployment of forces in times of conflict.