Cambodia and China agree to expand Golden Dragon military exercise

Cambodia and China have agreed to expand the joint Golden Dragon 2026 military exercise, incorporating modern equipment and involving multiple branches of the armed forces, as reported by the Khmer Times.

The preparations were discussed by Cambodian Royal Armed Forces Deputy Commander Eth Sarath and a Chinese military delegation led by Senior Captain Ji Xiang.

“The Cambodian Royal Armed Forces leadership wants to ensure this year’s exercise is successful and meaningful in strengthening friendship and cooperation between the Cambodian and Chinese military,” said Eth Sarath, as quoted by the Khmer Times.

He added that both sides will continue to coordinate scenarios, timing, locations, participants, and the list of modern equipment for the drill.

Ji Xiang stated that Chinese military leadership highly values the exercise and supports further expansion.

Eth Sarath stressed that the exercise aims to enhance Cambodia’s military capabilities and poses no threat to any nation.

“We must demonstrate that our joint military exercises are robust, equipped with new and modern gear, and align with current regional and global circumstances,” the general said.

Over recent years, the drills have expanded from land-based operations to include coastal and aerial domains in Preah Sihanouk Province, including the Ream Naval Base area, which has been upgraded with Chinese support, according to the Khmer Times.