The PLA has increasingly conducted evacuations of Chinese nationals from conflict zones and unstable regions. These operations reinforce narratives of responsibility and capability while justifying expanded overseas military reach.

Beyond its base in Djibouti, China has sought access to ports, airfields and logistics hubs through agreements, security cooperation and dual-use infrastructure. China seeks a network of arrangements to support sustained military deployments and global influence.

China conducts ballistic and cruise missile tests and space operations that are supported by naval and auxiliary vessels operating in international waters. These activities demonstrate strategic capabilities and contribute to China’s global surveillance networks.

China’s navy now routinely conducts long-duration deployments beyond the first island chain, including in the Indian Ocean, South Pacific, Middle East and waters near Europe and the Americas. These operations signal global reach, build operational experience and normalise Chinese naval presence in distant regions.

Since 2008, China has maintained a continuous naval presence in the Gulf of Aden under the banner of anti-piracy operations. These missions provide operational experience, justify long-term overseas deployments, and reinforce China’s image as a contributor to international security.

China has signed a growing number of defence cooperation agreements, memoranda of understanding and security partnerships. As China seeks to expand its partnerships and influence, these frameworks facilitate training, intelligence sharing, arms transfers and access.

China uses arms exports and equipment donations to build long-term defence relationships and influence partner forces. Chinese systems are sometimes bundled with training, maintenance and advisory support, creating enduring dependencies and reinforcing China’s role as a security provider, particularly in developing regions.

The PLA increasingly participates in bilateral and multilateral exercises across the Indo-Pacific, Africa, the Middle East and Europe. These activities enhance interoperability with partner forces, showcase Chinese capabilities, and familiarise the PLA with operating in diverse environments.

Like many other countries, China conducts regular high-level defence dialogues, port visits, staff talks and military exchanges to build relationships, shape perceptions and position itself as a security partner of choice. These engagements are used to promote Chinese security concepts and expand influence within foreign defence establishments.

Chinese private security companies and state security personnel provide protection for Chinese investments, infrastructure and citizens abroad. These deployments expand China’s security footprint while limiting political exposure associated with formal military involvement.

Chinese research and survey vessels conduct oceanographic research, seabed mapping and underwater surveys in distant waters. These activities generate data relevant to submarine operations, undersea infrastructure and future military activity, while maintaining a civilian or scientific façade.

Beijing is looking to use the Chinese Coast Guard further from its shores to conduct patrols, port visits and joint activities to extend its law-enforcement presence. These deployments allow China to assert influence while avoiding the escalatory signalling of naval combatants.

China's overseas police stations have been established in multiple countries, often framed as providing administrative assistance. These stations extend China’s policing reach and have been associated with political influence and coercive practices beyond China’s borders.

China deploys police officers abroad and participates in joint policing initiatives and training programs. These activities deepen law-enforcement cooperation, extend China’s influence into domestic security systems, and support efforts to monitor and manage overseas Chinese communities.