A satellite image shows what security analysts believe are Y-8 light attack fighters and support vehicles at a new China-Laos joint training facility in Ban Keun, Vientiane Province, Laos
The facility at Ban Keun, about 50 km north of the Laotian capital, was announced by China and Laos on September 29.
China is expanding its military presence in Southeast Asia, with satellite imagery showing light attack aircraft and military vehicles at a newly established China-Laos joint training facility near Vientiane, according to reports. China’s defence ministry said the centre would support training for Laotian air force pilots and would be operated by both sides.
The K-8 aircraft, also known as the Hongdu JL-8, are used for training and light attack missions and are operated by both China and Laos, according to Reuters.
Rachel Vandenbrink, a senior analyst at the Australian Strategic Policy Institute, told Reuters the location was “likely more about a target of opportunity than filling an obvious operational need”. “Laos does have some geostrategic value as an accessible foothold in mainland Southeast Asia, given its shared border with China and infrastructure links, including (its) railway,” she said. Laos has four of the aircraft, based on the International Institute for Strategic Studies’ annual assessment. China’s defence ministry did not immediately respond to Reuters’ request for comment, while the Lao embassy in Bangkok and Laos’ foreign ministry also did not immediately respond.