China Enhances Military Surveillance Near US Base in Djibouti, Former Pentagon Official States

<p>Beijing has reportedly upgraded its military presence near the Red Sea, according to a former Pentagon official, following a report that detailed enhancements to China's military footprint approximately six miles from a U.S. military base in Djibouti, Africa, which costs around $66 million annually. The report from the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) indicated that new facilities could allow the Chinese military to monitor the activities of other militaries in the area, although it did not confirm whether China is intercepting communications.</p><p>Defense expert Morgan Murphy stated that these developments might escalate tensions in U.S.-China relations ahead of Chinese President Xi Jinping's visit to the White House on September 24. Murphy noted, "What China is clearly doing is building eavesdropping capabilities. That seems to be their aim."</p><p>Murphy further commented on the construction of a 30-meter satellite dish, suggesting that its design indicates a covert operation. The CSIS report identified a large facility that includes a control building, three 30-meter dipole antennas for high-frequency communications, two smaller antennas for very and ultra-high frequencies, three mobile satellite dishes, four probable 5G towers, and a radome covering an unidentified asset.</p><p>CSIS highlighted two new communications facilities that have emerged since 2024, which are likely part of a command architecture that enhances China's ability to intercept signals, track naval movements, and communicate with Beijing while monitoring foreign militaries in the region. The report stated that these facilities would provide China with a more comprehensive understanding of regional operations.</p><p>Murphy remarked on the strategic implications of China's facility, noting its proximity to Camp Lemonnier, the primary U.S. counterterrorism hub in Africa, and other foreign military installations. He emphasized that the location is significant given the volume of global sea trade that passes through the area. Murphy stated, "Great powers don’t plant listening posts next to rival fleets for 'logistics.'"</p><p>China’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jian responded by stating that China is "unaware of the specific situation" and characterized the country as a "builder of international peace." However, the new facilities reportedly enhance Beijing's ability to monitor regional operations.</p><p>Murphy noted that nations engage in espionage, stating, "It is a very old playbook, and listening posts all over the world are typical of great powers, but where the metal hits the floorboard is when you try to use that information." He added that while China may keep tabs on the U.S., it lacks the capability to project power like the United States.</p><p>The report also referenced a 2018 incident where Chinese lasers were reportedly directed at U.S. pilots, causing injuries. Murphy highlighted the ongoing tensions between U.S. and Chinese military operations in the region.</p><p>Murphy concluded by stating that while China is enhancing its intelligence capabilities, it currently lacks the naval assets to project power beyond its immediate region. He emphasized the importance of maintaining a ready posture in response to potential threats.</p><p>Fox News Digital has reached out to the Chinese Embassy for comment.</p>