According to Damien Symon's report, surveillance images of Bangladesh's submarine base, constructed by China, indicate the construction of a dry dock, presumably intended for submarine maintenance. This expanded defense collaboration by China is seen as a means to strengthen its position and influence in the area. 

With Chinese assistance, the establishment of a submarine base in Bangladesh named BNS Sheikh Hasina is nearing completion, sparking concerns in India's security circles regarding potential espionage on the Indian Navy. Satellite images reveal the presence of a dry dock at the base, measuring 135 meters in length and approximately 30 meters in width, designated for submarine repairs. 

The submarine base known as BNS Sheikh Hasina is being built in Pekua, Cox's Bazar, Bangladesh, at a cost of approximately $1.21 billion. Spanning an area of 1.75 square kilometers, construction on the base reportedly commenced in 2020 and was officially opened in March 2023 by Bangladesh's Prime Minister, Sheikh Hasina, with significant attendance from Chinese dignitaries as per media reports.  

With the establishment of a submarine base in Bangladesh, it is anticipated that China will soon gain logistical and strategic entry into the region. Analysts view this development as a form of submarine diplomacy, especially considering China's provision of two submarines to Bangladesh. It is predicted that Chinese submarines will now utilize the Bangladesh base for maintenance and enhancement purposes. 

The BNS Sheikh Hasina base is capable of accommodating six submarines and fighter ships simultaneously. Constructed by a Chinese company with Chinese investment, there are speculations that China might exploit it as an espionage outpost, thereby heightening India's apprehensions. The docking of Chinese ships and submarines in Bangladesh could potentially jeopardize India's security in the Bay of Bengal, allowing China to monitor Indian naval activities in the region. Additionally, given the proximity of the Sheikh Hasina base to India's nuclear submarine base, China could potentially engage in espionage activities targeting India's naval operations. 

Image Source: Naval Technology