Ream Naval Base

Ream Naval Base is a major maritime facility operated by the Royal Cambodian Navy on the coast of Sihanoukville Province, overlooking the Gulf of Thailand. In September 2020, Cambodia demolished US-built tactical headquarters on the base, clearing the way for a rapid, systematic transformation through extensive, Beijing-funded modernization works. The revamped base formally reopened in April 2025, featuring a newly constructed deep-water pier and dry dock capable of berthing large surface combatants. According to satellite mapping and field reports from the Asia Maritime Transparency Initiative (AMTI), these upgrades significantly expand the base's cargo and combat logistics capacity.

Security monitors in Washington and regional capitals frequently raise concerns that China is seeking exclusive military access to the facility. This debate intensified in early 2026 when satellite photographs documented Chinese naval vessels stationed at the primary pier for months. However, Cambodia maintains that the base remains open to all friendly nations. In a notable demonstration of this policy, the US Navy littoral combat ship USS Cincinnati docked at Ream in January 2026, marking the first American port call since the Chinese-led renovations were completed. Naval vessels from Japan and Canada have made similar technical stops, though Western analysts continue to question whether Beijing holds preferred de facto administrative control over specific support zones.

The physical capabilities of the Royal Cambodian Navy received a direct upgrade following the base reopening. In April 2026, Cambodia took delivery of its first Chinese-built Type 056C corvette, named Konkopd Senchey, under a bilateral defense grant from Beijing. Reports from Army Recognition indicate this 1,300-tonne combatant is equipped with anti-ship guided missiles and an air-defense missile system, shifting the local fleet from basic patrol operations toward integrated coastal defense. While Cambodia's constitution explicitly prohibits foreign military bases on its territory, the establishment of the joint support center ensures a persistent, long-term presence of Chinese technical and military advisors on the peninsula.