MSDF ships make port call at China-linked Cambodian base

Maritime Self-Defense Force sailors stand in formation after two Japanese vessels docked at the Ream naval base in Cambodia on Saturday. | EMBASSY OF JAPAN IN CAMBODIA

Wires
April 19, 2025

REAM, CAMBODIA – Two Maritime Self-Defense Force ships made a port call at Cambodia's Ream naval base Saturday, marking the first time any foreign military vessel has stopped at the base since it underwent expansion work with support from China.
The two vessels are the MSDF minesweeper tender Bungo and minesweeper Etajima with a combined crew of about 500. During their stay until Tuesday, crew members will interact with Cambodian naval members.

"Japan was chosen as the first country to make a port call as a result of the friendly relations accumulated with Cambodia," MSDF Capt. Shinsuke Amano said.