China’s Surveillance Expansion in Djibouti Sparks Concerns

Reports have emerged revealing China’s pivotal role in transforming the Red Sea into a surveillance hub. A former Pentagon official warned about these developments, following a recent study detailing enhancements to China’s military reach near a prominent U.S. base in Djibouti, Africa.

The Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS), based in Washington, highlighted newly constructed facilities that could enable China’s military to monitor activities of nearby foreign forces. Although it remains uncertain whether China is intercepting communications actively, defense experts suggest this could heighten tensions between the U.S. and China, especially as Chinese President Xi Jinping prepares to visit the White House on September 24.

Former Trump White House official Morgan Murphy pointed out, “What China is clearly doing is building eavesdropping capabilities. That seems to be their aim.” According to Murphy, it is noteworthy that China established its only overseas base merely six miles from America’s base in Djibouti.

“Beijing has clearly wiretapped the Red Sea. When you build a 30-meter satellite dish and cover it with a dome, so nobody can see where it’s pointing, it’s pretty clear you’re up to no good,” noted Murphy.

CSIS research illustrates a southeastern facility equipped with a control building, large antennas, mobile satellite dishes, probable 5G towers, and a “radome.” These constructions reflect China’s enhanced communication capabilities, strengthening their ability to intercept signals, monitor naval movements, and connect with Beijing.

Commercial satellite imagery reveals newly installed antennas and associated equipment at China’s Djibouti base — its sole officially acknowledged overseas military post.

Murphy described the site’s significance: “This isn’t a supply depot — it’s a seat over America’s power projection and the U.S. Navy,” emphasizing the strategic importance due to its vicinity to Camp Lemonnier, a crucial U.S. counterterrorism hub.

He warned against China’s location choice, noting, “Nations spy on each other — allies and adversaries alike. Listening posts are typical, but it’s about how you use the information.” China reportedly keeps tabs on American operations but lacks power projection capabilities like those of the U.S.

Proximity between China’s base and U.S. operations remains a core concern. Located less than six miles from Camp Lemonnier and in close proximity to other foreign installations, the site has historically experienced friction with U.S. forces.

In 2018, a confrontation occurred when military-grade lasers were aimed at American pilots at Camp Lemonnier, causing minor injuries. Though China denied involvement, the episode marked the potential for conflict between neighboring military bases.

China’s strategic interest in disrupting U.S. control over oil supply routes stems from reliance on Middle Eastern oil, with significant imports traveling long sea corridors. Murphy noted China’s muscle-flexing as it seeks greater control over essential oil routes.

Despite the surveillance hub’s potential impact, China’s lack of a blue-water navy limits its current capacity to project power beyond the first island chain. However, Murphy cautioned that, “China is working quickly towards expanding their capabilities. We must maintain a ready posture to subdue any threats.”

Fox News Digital has contacted the Chinese Embassy for their comments regarding the report.