China wants military bases in Bangladesh, Myanmar: Is Pentagon report a worry for India?

Key Highlights

• These would help support naval, air, and possibly ground force projection far from China’s mainland. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS ADOne of the most sensitive parts of the report for New Delhi is the mention of South Asian neighbours—Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, and Myanmar—where China has “likely considered basing” options.
• Pakistan is also on that list but is treated separately because of its well‑known strategic and defence ties with Beijing. More from World China’s obsession with Arunachal, growing defence ties with Pakistan: Why Pentagon’s report is a big worry for India Are the US and China heading for a new chip war?
• Washington probe flags Beijing’s ‘aggressive’ pushChina’s interest in these locations is not happening in a vacuum. Analysts often point to the String of Pearls theory, a strategy in which Beijing secures a network of ports, facilities, and relationships across the Indian Ocean to protect its sea lines of communication and expand influence. Why this matters to IndiaFor India, which views the Indian Ocean as its strategic backyard, Chinese military basing  even if limited to logistical facilities raises concerns.
• Such facilities, experts say, could allow the PLA to position assets closer to vital maritime routes such as the Strait of Malacca and the Bay of Bengal. India is already boosting its own security posture: strengthening border defenses and expanding naval capabilities to counterbalance China’s expanding reach.
• Moves such as establishing new garrisons along the Bangladesh border and enhancing surveillance efforts near key chokepoints are part of this broader strategy. Quick ReadsView AllAustralia: Car with Hanukkah sign set on fire in suspected antisemitic attack days after Bondi shootingInflation pushes Japan’s top pen maker to hike prices on bestselling item for first time in 20 yearsBeijing has consistently dismissed interpretations of its overseas engagement as purely military expansion.