China and Cambodia Launch “Golden Dragon-2025” to Boost Military Ties

China and Cambodia have commenced the “Golden Dragon-2025” joint military exercise at a training center in Cambodia, reflecting a significant expansion in scale, scope, and sophistication of their bilateral defense cooperation. This year’s drill showcases advanced unmanned combat systems and covers land, sea, and air operations, aiming to strengthen tactical coordination, humanitarian response, and counter-terrorism capabilities.

Why in News?

The “Golden Dragon-2025” joint exercise was officially launched in mid-May 2025. It marks the seventh edition of this annual military cooperation initiative between China and Cambodia, and for the first time, it integrates operations from the China-Cambodia Ream Port Joint Support and Training Center. The drill has drawn attention for its multi-domain coverage, inclusion of cutting-edge drone technologies, and deepening mutual military trust.

Key Highlights

• Name of Exercise: Golden Dragon-2025
• Participants: China’s PLA and Cambodian Armed Forces
• Location: Cambodia (land and maritime areas including Port Ream)
• Duration: Mid-to-late May 2025
• Themes: Counter-terrorism, Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR), Peace & Cooperation
• Phases: Adaptive training → Command drills → Live-force exercises

Objectives and Features

Strengthen Joint Capabilities

• Enhance coordination in land-sea-air combat scenarios
• Train in tactical drills and unmanned systems operations

Showcase of Advanced Technology

• Deployment of drone swarms, FPV drones, assault vehicles, radar systems, and infantry fighting vehicles

Integration of Forces

• Mixed-unit training and adaptive drills
• Collaboration through a joint command headquarters

Cultural Exchange & Outreach

• Cultural programs, ship open-day events, and medical and educational outreach to promote people-to-people ties

Strategic Significance

• Demonstrates deep military trust and defense diplomacy
• Strengthens China’s strategic presence in Southeast Asia

Summary/Static	Details
Why in the news?	China and Cambodia Launch “Golden Dragon-2025” to Boost Military Ties
Exercise Name	Golden Dragon-2025
Participating Nations	China and Cambodia
Nature	Joint military drill with humanitarian and counter-terrorism focus
Duration	Mid-to-late May 2025
First Use of China-Cambodia Ream	Port Joint Support & Training Center
Key Technologies	Drone swarms, FPV drones, amphibious assault vehicles, radars
Objective	Strengthen joint capabilities, tactical coordination, and people-to-people ties