China Ramps Up Defense Near Border, Deploys Howitzers as Turmoil With Myanmar Intensifies

China's armed forces have released images of extensive military drills near the southern border with Myanmar, signaling Beijing's growing concern over regional stability amid escalating conflict in the area.

The Chinese People's Liberation Army's Southern Theater Command has deployed howitzers and counter-battery radars as part of these exercises, as per Newsweek.

China, India Escalate Military Actions

(Photo : NOEL CELIS/AFP via Getty Images)
This photograph taken on January 14, 2023, shows a part of a border wall between China and Myanmar with barbed wire and a Chinese national flag, in Ruili, west Yunnan Province. - The city of Ruili is slowly creaking back to life as China ditches its zero-tolerance Covid strategy after years of strict lockdowns and other gruelling restrictions.

According to the state-owned Global Times, this action seems to be a reaction to the escalating hostilities between the military junta and rebel forces in Myanmar, which has increased the likelihood of the conflict transcending national borders.

Simultaneously, India is significantly enhancing its military capabilities. To boost mobile firepower in high-altitude border areas, including the Line of Actual Control with China, the Indian Army plans to acquire 200 new mounted howitzers equipped with 105 mm guns.

This procurement, part of a 'Make in India' initiative, marks the first instance of the Indian artillery incorporating 105 mm mounted howitzers, a move aimed at strengthening formations in forward positions.

The Indian Army's modernization efforts extend beyond mounted howitzers. The Defence Ministry is also expected to approve the purchase of 400 new towed guns, utilizing the capabilities of Indian firms that have developed prowess in this field and are now even exporting these systems globally.

A notable aspect of this modernization is the emphasis on indigenous production, with the Army issuing tenders for Advanced Towed Artillery Gun Systems and mounted gun systems to cater to border security needs.

This push for modernization includes a focus on 155 mm/52 caliber Towed Gun Systems, designed to be lighter, more versatile, and adaptable to future technological advancements. The acquisition process is part of a broader plan for 'Mediumisation' with indigenous guns, projected to be completed by 2042, according to Rediff.

China Intensifies Border Drills

Contracts for 155 mm howitzer procurement have already been concluded in the last decade, with several regiments being equipped with these modern systems, including Dhanush, Sharang, Ultra Light Howitzer, and K-9 Vajra Self-Propelled Guns.

Meanwhile, the Chinese military's activities along the Myanmar border and in Southeast Asia have drawn international attention. The PLA's recent drills demonstrate its capabilities in safeguarding national sovereignty and border stability.

The timing coincides with increased fighting in Myanmar, where the military junta faces opposition from the "Three Brotherhood Alliance," an armed coalition of ethnic minority groups. This escalation has heightened tensions in an already volatile region.

China's strategy in Myanmar is multifaceted. Besides military posturing, Beijing has undertaken anti-gambling operations to counter illegal activities within Myanmar and has shown varying levels of support for factions within Myanmar's anti-junta coalition.

This complex approach underscores the challenges China faces in maintaining stability along its southern border while navigating the intricacies of Myanmar's internal conflict.

Three Chinese navy ships, including a guided-missile destroyer and frigate, made a goodwill visit to Myanmar, engaging in naval security exercises with Myanmar forces. Following the lifting of zero-COVID restrictions, this visit reflects China's intensified defense engagement in the region, Business Times reported.