PHNOM PENH, Cambodia — Cambodia and China have commenced their most extensive joint military exercises to date, marking a significant expansion in their defense cooperation. The drills began on May 14 and involved advanced Chinese military hardware, including artillery, warships, armored vehicles, helicopters, and reconnaissance drones.
According to the Royal Cambodian Armed Forces (RCAF), nearly 900 Chinese military personnel and more than 1,300 Cambodian soldiers are participating in the exercises, which will run until May 28. This year’s iteration, known as Golden Dragon, is the most extensive series, featuring land, sea, and air operations.
The drills are being conducted at multiple locations, including Cambodia’s Beijing-renovated Ream Naval Base, where a large Chinese naval vessel, the Changbai Shan, docked earlier this week with military equipment for the exercises. The Chinese Ministry of National Defense said the drills aim to enhance counter-terrorism capabilities and humanitarian assistance operations.
Cambodian officials emphasize that the exercises are intended to strengthen military cooperation and regional security. At the same time, analysts suggest that China is using the opportunity to demonstrate its growing military influence in Southeast Asia. The drills follow a recent visit by Chinese President Xi Jinping to Cambodia, further solidifying ties between the two nations.
This year’s Golden Dragon exercises mark a significant milestone in Cambodia-China military relations, reflecting their deepening strategic partnership in the region.
