Satellite images show attack jets at Chinese military facility in Laos
Satellite imagery reveals the presence of Chinese light attack aircraft at a newly expanded military facility in Laos. This development marks a significant expansion of China's military footprint in mainland Southeast Asia.
Why it matters
The establishment of a foreign airbase capable of hosting fighter jets signals a shift in regional security dynamics and Chinese military projection.
A satellite image shows what security analysts believe are Y-8 light attack fighters at a new China-Laos joint training facility in Ban Keun. A satellite image shows what security analysts believe are Y-8 light attack fighters at a new China-Laos joint training facility in Ban Keun. China Satellite images show attack jets at Chinese military facility in Laos New ‘support and training centre’ prompts concern in region but China says it is ‘not directed at any third party’
Prefer the Guardian on Google Satellite images show attack jets stationed at a new Chinese military facility in Laos , which opened last week and gives Beijing’s air force its first foothold in mainland south-east Asia.
Images provided by the commercial satellite provider Vantor show eight light attack aircraft positioned at Ban Keun airport alongside what appear to be more than a dozen military vehicles lined up in rows.
Also covering this story
One other newsroom covered this event. We read that version too.
Get smarter about the news
Sign up free for a feed built around what you actually care about, Dive Deeper research on any story, and the full text of every article.
Create free accountAlready have an account? Sign in