T
he People’s Republic of China (PRC) is brokering international access agree-
ments to expand its security footprint abroad, create avenues for overseas
military activities, and extend the reach of the People’s Liberation Army
(PLA) and associated paramilitary elements, such as the People’s Armed
Police (PAP). Reports of Chinese efforts to secure military access or basing agree-
ments have mentioned Cambodia, Equatorial Guinea, Nambia, the Solomon Islands,
the United Arab Emirates, and Vanuatu, among others.
1
The PRC’s successful agree-
ments, such as those with Cambodia, would add to its military facilities abroad,
which include a military logistics base in Djibouti and a small paramilitary outpost
in Tajikistan.
2
Overseas military bases have obvious utility for Chinese armed forces in peace-
time; for example, the bases host specialized facilities that can sustain and maintain
PLA forces conducting nontraditional security operations in distant theaters. The
bases’ utility in wartime, however, is less clear. This report seeks to enhance public
understanding and discussion of Chinese overseas basing by exploring Chinese
HOWARD WANG, NATHAN BEAUCHAMP-MUSTAFAGA
Not Ready for a Fight
Chinese Military Insecurities for Overseas Bases in Wartime
Research Report
June 2024
