# What China's new military foothold in Laos means for Southeast Asia

https://mins.news/en/item/86548

- DW, 2026-10-05 14:01 UTC
- World
- Original: https://www.dw.com/en/what-china-s-new-military-foothold-in-laos-means-for-southeast-asia/a-79548259?maca=en-rss-en-all-1573-rdf

> China has opened a joint military training and logistics facility in Laos, saying it will mainly train Lao air force pilots. Analysts warn the site could evolve into a permanent base, expanding Beijing's military reach in mainland Southeast Asia, sharpening competition with Washington and complicating Vietnam's defense planning.

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- [Satellite images show attack jets at Chinese military facility in Laos](https://mins.news/en/item/89864) — The Guardian, 2026-10-07
- [EXCLUSIVE: Attack aircraft, military vehicles seen at new China-Laos base, satellite images show](https://mins.news/en/item/87709) — Reuters, 2026-10-06