In the modern era, military strength isn’t just about defending borders. It’s about securing interests, allies, and trade routes far from home. Countries like the United States and China have built military bases around the world to maintain influence and ensure quick responses to global events.
India, traditionally inward-looking in defense, is now quietly expanding its presence overseas. With growing global responsibilities, vast maritime trade, and a large diaspora, India is stepping beyond its borders in a strategic, cooperative way.
What Are Overseas Military Bases and Why Are They Important?
Overseas military bases are defense facilities located in foreign countries. These installations support various functions like refueling, training, surveillance, or humanitarian aid.
Key roles they play:
- Enable quick deployment during crises
- Protect vital sea lanes and airspace
- Offer early warnings through intelligence networks
- Strengthen ties with partner nations
- Support the safety of citizens abroad
For India, such access is not just about projecting power. It’s about being prepared, connected, and responsible.
India’s Overseas Military Presence: A Growing Web of Strategic Access
India doesn’t build large standalone bases like some major powers. Instead, it focuses on shared infrastructure, long-term cooperation, and strategic diplomacy. Here’s where India currently has a meaningful overseas defense presence.
1. Tajikistan – Farkhor Air Bases
Farkhor was India’s first overseas air base, located close to Afghanistan. It gives India reach into Central Asia and acts as a forward hub in times of crisis. It is one of the most important Indian air bases outside India.
Why it matters: Proximity to Pakistan and Afghanistan allows for strategic depth and quicker response capabilities.
2. Bhutan – IMTRAT
The Indian Military Training Team (IMTRAT) is stationed in Bhutan to train the Royal Bhutan Army. It’s one of India’s oldest overseas missions and a symbol of the close ties between the two nations.
Why it matters: Ensures strong Himalayan defense collaboration and supports Bhutan’s sovereignty.
3. Oman – Duqm, Muscat, and Ras al Hadd
India maintains access to four defense locations in Oman:
- Ras al Hadd listening post for regional surveillance
- Berthing rights at Muscat Naval Base
- Naval and air base access in Duqm for refueling and repair
Why it matters: Strengthens India’s position in the Arabian Sea and Gulf region.
4. Sri Lanka – Hambantota Air Base Access
India secured access to a Sri Lankan air base near Hambantota in 2018. Though not yet a full-fledged Indian base, it helps monitor growing Chinese naval activity.
Why it matters: Helps balance strategic influence in the Indian Ocean.
5. Mauritius – North Agalega Island Facility
India is working closely with Mauritius to enhance its maritime security infrastructure on North Agalega Island. This facility includes a coastal radar surveillance system and strategic airstrip developments. While it’s not formally a full-fledged military base, the site significantly boosts India’s ability to monitor the southwestern Indian Ocean and respond swiftly to maritime threats.
Why it matters: It improves India’s logistical reach and protects critical sea lanes without interfering with Mauritius’ sovereignty.
7. Maldives – Coastal Surveillance and Maritime Presence
India maintains a Coastal Surveillance Radar Station in the Maldives, contributing to the country’s maritime safety. Indian naval assets regularly patrol the region’s busy waterways to deter piracy, illegal fishing, and trafficking. Rather than a permanent base, this is a mission-based presence, focused on protecting regional waters in coordination with the Maldivian government.
Why it matters: It strengthens Maldives’ maritime defenses and reflects India’s role as a first responder in the Indian Ocean.
8. Seychelles – Assumption Island Agreement
India operates a coastal surveillance radar system in Seychelles and has signed a bilateral defense agreement for infrastructure development on Assumption Island. The proposed facility, although delayed due to local opposition, is intended to serve as a logistics and surveillance hub, helping both countries safeguard their maritime interests.
Why it matters: It counters growing strategic pressure from China in the region and boosts Seychelles’ capacity to deal with regional threats.
9. Singapore – Changi Naval Base
Through a 2017 logistics agreement, Indian naval ships can dock and resupply at Changi Naval Base near the busy Malacca Strait.
Why it matters: Ensures a strong Indian presence in Southeast Asia and enhances cooperation in the Indo-Pacific.
How These Bases Affect Local Communities
Positive Impacts:
- Infrastructure upgrades in ports and airstrips
- Employment during construction and operations
- Better regional security through cooperation
Challenges:
- Public opposition in places like Seychelles due to sovereignty concerns
- Environmental risks from infrastructure expansion
India usually manages these concerns by ensuring local involvement, clear communication, and a partnership-based approach.
A New Chapter in Indian Diplomacy
India’s overseas military presence is growing with purpose, not aggression. Each facility, whether a radar station in the Maldives or an air base in Tajikistan, reflects India’s strategy of cooperative engagement. These bases help protect trade, build stronger ties, respond to emergencies, and ensure India remains ready in a world full of shifting dynamics.
Rather than mimic superpowers, India is crafting its own model based on trust, respect, and regional stability.
