CMSI Archive Translation: Research on Legal Issues Related to Security and Defense of China’s Overseas Military Bases

Authors

Zou Ligang
Wang Zhangping

Abstract

This research addresses the legal issues concerning the security and defense of China’s overseas military support bases, such as the one in Djibouti, which are crucial for achieving "far seas protection". It explores the legal basis for exercising jurisdiction, noting that the host state cedes sovereignty via international agreements. The paper specifically examines foreign reconnaissance near the base by military frogmen or surveillance aircraft, concluding that such acts match the constituent elements of espionage behavior under PRC laws like the Criminal Law and Anti-Espionage Law. Improving international agreements to clearly define jurisdiction over criminal acts against the base is recommended.

Recommended Citation

Zou Ligang and Wang Zhangping (2026) "CMSI Archive Translation: Research on Legal Issues Related to Security and Defense of China’s Overseas Military Bases," CMSI Quarterly Review: Vol. 1: No. 3, Article 22.
Available at: https://digital-commons.usnwc.edu/cmsi-quarterly-review/vol1/iss3/22