ISLAMABAD: Recent satellite imagery and defence analyses indicate that thePeople’s Liberation Army of China continues to develop militaryinfrastructure near buffer zones along the Line of Actual Control ineastern Ladakh, areas previously affected by territorial incursions since2020. These constructions, including roads, helipads, and supportfacilities, are occurring in regions that India claims were captured byChinese forces, raising concerns about the permanence of disengagementagreements reached in late 2024.
The buffer zones were established following partial disengagements atfriction points such as Pangong Tso, Gogra-Hot Springs, and Galwan Valleybetween 2021 and 2022. Although troops withdrew from direct confrontationsites, no-patrol areas were created to prevent clashes. However, reportsfrom early 2025 highlight that China has strengthened positions rearward ofthese zones, effectively consolidating control over disputed territories.
According to a Jane’s Defence Weekly analysis of 2024-2025 satelliteimages, both nations maintain extensive troop rotations and have enhancedinfrastructure. China has built new anti-aircraft sites, expanded borderdefences, and improved logistics, allowing rapid reinforcement. Estimatessuggest the PLA sustains around 120,000 troops with supporting facilitieswithin 100 kilometres of the LAC.
Defence sources note that while disengagement completed in Depsang andDemchok in October 2024 allowed resumed patrolling, buffer zones in otherareas remain intact. Indian Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi describedthe situation as stable yet sensitive in January 2025, denying formalbuffer zones but acknowledging temporary moratoriums in high-risk areas toavert violence.
Satellite evidence from various periods shows PLA constructingdivision-level headquarters near Pangong Tso, including barracks andweapons shelters. Additional roads and bridges facilitate quicker troopmovements, altering the strategic balance. India has responded withmirrored deployments and infrastructure upgrades, deploying over 50,000additional troops since 2021.
The Pentagon’s 2024 report highlighted China’s sustained build-up, notinginvestments in military facilities despite partial withdrawals. Thispersistence occurs amid diplomatic efforts, including high-level meetings,yet trust deficits persist due to past violations of border protocols.
Experts argue that these developments indicate China’s intent for apermanent forward presence, potentially shifting the effective controlline. Buffer zones, initially temporary, now appear semi-permanent inseveral sectors, limiting Indian access to traditional patrolling points.
A US Army War College study estimated 20,000 PLA troops in Aksai Chin,supported by new heliports opposite Indian positions in Daulat Beg Oldi.Concurrently, China upgrades airfields and deploys advanced systems,enhancing operational capabilities in high-altitude terrain.
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Indian countermeasures include redirecting forces from the western frontand accelerating road networks like the Darbuk-Shyok-Daulat Beg Oldi axis.Both sides now possess facilities for sustained large-scale deployments,increasing escalation risks.
The ongoing infrastructure race underscores a new normal along the LAC,with mutual distrust driving continuous militarisation. Diplomatic channelsremain active, but resolution of remaining issues, including buffer zonestatus, appears distant as of early 2026.
Source:https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/defence/china-quietly-boosting-military-infrastructure-at-lac-despite-ongoing-diplomatic-talks-with-india/articleshow/117676208.cms
Tags: China, India, LAC, PLA, Depsang, Demchok, Buffer Zones
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