List of Indian Military Bases Outside India

India has established military bases in key locations outside its borders to enhance its strategic reach and security. India maintains several military facilities abroad to support its defence operations and regional partnerships. These bases help India monitor maritime routes, conduct joint exercises, and respond quickly to threats. Some of the major bases include the Farkhor Air Base in Tajikistan, which supports air operations near Afghanistan, and the Indian Military Training Team (IMTRAT) in Bhutan, which trains Bhutanese forces. India also has listening posts in Madagascar and Oman and is developing a strategic airstrip on Agaléga Island in Mauritius. These installations enhance India's presence in the Indian Ocean and Central Asia. They also support naval movements and intelligence gathering. In this article, we'll take a look at the key Indian military bases located outside India, their roles, and how they contribute to India's defence strategy.

List of Indian Military Bases Outside India

India is strategically expanding its military reach through key agreements, primarily with the USA and Japan. In 2016, India and the USA signed the LEMOA (Logistics Exchange Memorandum of Agreement). This allows both countries' militaries to use each other's bases for refuelling and repairs. This pact gives India potential access to a vast network of US bases across over 85 countries, including critical locations such as Australia, Japan, and Singapore. These are crucial for countering challenges from China and Pakistan.

Similarly, India and Japan signed a logistics agreement, giving their forces mutual access to supplies and services. A key benefit is India's access to Japan's military base in Djibouti, strategically countering China's base in the same region. These arrangements solidify India's position in the Indian Ocean and the Indo-Pacific by using friendly nations' facilities to counter its rivals.

1. Farkhor Air Base, Tajikistan

This was India's first foreign military base. It opened a significant reach into Central Asia. Located close to Afghanistan, it is helpful for counterterrorism and intelligence work. The Indian Air Force worked alongside the Tajik Air Force. The base helped India monitor and respond quickly to situations near Afghanistan. The lease expired recently, but it was vital for Indian strategic interests for many years.

2. IMTRAT, Bhutan

India runs a Military Training Team, IMTRAT, in Bhutan. It is based in Haa Dzong, in western Bhutan. Indian Army staff train the Royal Bhutan Army and the Royal Bodyguard here. The team helps Bhutan improve its defence abilities. Bhutan and India have strong relations, and IMTRAT shows India's support for Bhutan's security.

3. Listening Post, Madagascar

India's listening post in Madagascar was set up in 2007. It acts as an intelligence-gathering place. Indian staff monitor ship movements and marine communications here. The post helps India keep track of activity in the southwest Indian Ocean and Mozambique Channel. It is India’s first overseas electronic surveillance station.

4. Agalega Island Facility, Mauritius

India is building military facilities on Agalega Island in Mauritius. The base includes a long runway for planes and a radar system for coastal surveillance. It helps Indian forces spot ship movements quickly in the Indian Ocean. This base boosts India's maritime security and partnership with Mauritius.

5. Assumption Island Facility, Seychelles

India has developed a base and radar systems on Assumption Island, Seychelles. This base supports naval operations and helps combat piracy and illegal fishing. It is also used to counter the spread of influence by other countries in the region. India and Seychelles work together to keep their seas safe.

6. Ras al Hadd, Muscat & Duqm, Oman

India runs several facilities in Oman. At Ras al Hadd, there is a listening post for monitoring activities in the Gulf. Indian naval ships can use Muscat's port for berthing and maintenance. India has access to Duqm for aircraft and vessel repairs and support. These bases help the Indian Navy remain active in the Middle East.

7. Chabahar Port, Iran

Chabahar Port is a strategic site for India. It is not exactly a military base, but it provides India with necessary access to shipping and logistics. The port allows India to supply goods to Afghanistan and Central Asia without passing through Pakistan. India helps build and maintain parts of the port for this purpose.

8. Changi Naval Base, Singapore

India uses Changi Naval Base in Singapore to support its ships in Southeast Asia. This base is at one end of the busy Strait of Malacca. Indian naval ships can dock here and get supplies. It strengthens India's presence and supports security along essential sea routes.

9. Hambantota Air Base, Sri Lanka

India recently gained influence at the Hambantota Air Base in Sri Lanka. This helps monitor shipping lanes and supports regional stability. It also allows India to respond to emergencies and monitor activities in the region. The base enables India to counter strategic moves by other countries close to Sri Lanka.

10. Coastal Surveillance Radar, Maldives

The Indian Navy operates coastal surveillance radar in the Maldives. The radar station checks for pirate activity and keeps the seas around the Maldives safe. It helps protect local shipping and improves security in the area. India and the Maldives work together on maritime security using this facility.

Does India Have Military Bases Outside India?

Yes, India has a strategic military presence outside its borders, primarily in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR). These facilities are often referred to as listening posts, radar stations, or logistical access points, rather than large, permanent bases. Key operational facilities exist in friendly nations like Mauritius (Agalega Island), Seychelles (Assumption Island), and Oman (berthing rights).

Why Does India Have A Military Base In Tajikistan?

India established its first overseas military base, the Farkhor Air Base, in Tajikistan, primarily to enhance strategic depth and counter terrorism in Central Asia. Its initial purpose (starting in the late 1990s) was to provide logistical and medical support to the anti-Taliban Afghan Northern Alliance, including the repair of their helicopters. The base was strategically important for surveillance and for projecting influence in a region bordering Afghanistan, Pakistan, and China.

Which Is The Largest Military Base In India?

The Kanpur Cantonment (Kanpur Cantt) in Uttar Pradesh is generally considered the largest military base in India by area and population. Established in 1811, this large military cantonment covers approximately 4,243 acres (over 17 sq km) and serves as a significant logistical and residential hub for the Indian Army. In terms of sheer scale and operational importance to the Air Force, Hindon Air Force Station (near Delhi) is one of the largest air bases in Asia.

What Are The Top 5 Naval Bases In India?

• The Indian Navy operates three main operational commands. Its top bases, vital for security and power projection, include:
• INS Kadamba (Karwar, Karnataka): A large, modern base and central operational logistics hub under Project Seabird.
• Naval Base, Visakhapatnam (Andhra Pradesh): Headquarters of the Eastern Naval Command (ENC).
• INS Angre (Mumbai, Maharashtra): The primary logistics and administrative base for the Western Naval Command (WNC).
• INS Venduruthy (Kochi, Kerala): Headquarters of the Southern Naval Command (SNC) and a significant training centre.
• INS Utkrosh (Port Blair, A&N Islands): A joint naval and air base crucial for the Andaman & Nicobar Command, securing the strategic Indian Ocean choke points.