Indian Military Bases Outside the Country: Strategic Expansion and Global Presence
India has emerged as the world’s fourth-largest economy and it is a global military power, possessing one of the largest and most advanced armed forces globally. Equipped with cutting-edge technology and a credible nuclear deterrent, the Indian military plays a vital role in regional stability and international peacekeeping efforts with its military bases abroad
While the majority of India’s military bases are located within the country, it has also strategically expanded its presence overseas. As part of its growing geopolitical ambitions and maritime strategy, India has secured access to key military facilities in regions such as the Middle East, Africa, and the Indian Ocean. These overseas bases enhance India’s global defense posture, protect trade routes, and strengthen partnerships with allied nations.
Indian military bases abroad
India has military bases in Middle east, Africa in Indian ocean region.
- Tajikistan
- Mauritius
- Seychelles
- Oman
- Madagascar
- Bhutan
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Tajikistan
Tajikistan has two Indian Military bases
- Farkor Airbase – India’s first military base outside the country; supports operations in Central Asia and surveillance of Afghanistan and Pakistan.
- Ayni Airbase – airforce station near the Capital Dushanbe.
Mauritius
India is developing a runway and dock; though not officially a military base, it serves strategic maritime surveillance purposes in the southwest Indian Ocean.
Bhutan
India has two base in Bhutan in HAA and Thimphu. Indian military Training team has its station in Bhutan.
Seychelles
Construction of system with six coastal surveillance Radars.
Oman
- Birthing rights for Indian Navy at Muscat naval base.
- A listening post at Ras al Hadd.
- Duqm is a strategically important port in Oman where India has both a naval and air force base.
Madagascar
A listening post and a radar facility in northern Madagascar. it supports India’s maritime domain awareness in the Mozambique Channel and southwest Indian Ocean.
India has signed logistics agreements that grant military access to bases and ports in following allied countries.
- United States – via LEMOA
- France – access to bases in Reunion Island, Djibouti, and Abu Dhabi
- Australia
- Japan
- Singapore
- South Korea
These agreements allow the Indian forces to use foreign bases for refueling, maintenance, and logistical support.
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