UK-based think tank Chatham House reported that satellite imagery showed that since October 2022, China had had an “established presence” in the Aksai Chin region, increasing its troop presence, which was previously scattered and rudimentary, along the Line of Actual Contol (LAC).
Overview
The Chatham House report said Beijing has deployed an “extensive set of installations, establishing an ecosystem to support its deployments of PLA troops.” The satellite report showed “expanded roads, outposts, and modern weatherproof camps equipped with parking areas, solar panels, and even helipads.”
The helipad comprises 18 hangars and short runways, which can also be used for drones. The report said the construction would “significantly enhance the operational capabilities” of the People’s Liberation Army (PLA).
Beijing also plans to set up the Chinese G695 highway connecting the Xinjiang region to Tibet. This will run through the Aksai Chin region and serve as a “strategic artery,” allowing mainland China access to the disputed areas.
In another recent analysis of satellite images published by Hindustan Times, China has also been expanding its airfields along the LAC since 2020, constructing helipads, railways, missile bases, roads, and bridges. This will allow Beijing to expedite troop deployment along the border and expand its offensive capabilities.
Three years into the violent #India-#China clashes in Galwan valley, a transformation of Aksai Chin has shifted New Delhi's risk assessment towards its northern neighbor, read about the ongoing geopolitical freeze in @TheWorldToday with @John_Pollock22https://t.co/UUJV36beLh
— Damien Symon (@detresfa_) June 2, 2023
India-China Ties
The build-up is problematic for India, given that it will now have to match the infrastructure and troop deployment in the region. The LAC area houses rugged terrains, making armed force presence and supply of provisions difficult.
India has often reiterated that the region is a part of Ladakh but occupied by Beijing.
The region also houses the Galwan Valley, where 20 Indian soldiers died in a clash with Chinese troops in June 2020.
Tensions have peaked since May 2020, after Beijing took New Delhi by surprise and set up temporary establishments at key points along the LAC.
To this end, India hosted discussions on border tensions last week, wherein the countries agreed to convene for the 19th meeting between their Senior Commanders “at an early date.”
While four rounds of discussions have resulted in disengagement at Galwan Valley, Pangong Lake, and the Gogra and Hot Springs posts, the two sides continue to deploy over 60,000 troops each along their border. Depsang and Demchok remain the most prominent points of tension along the LAC.