The United States Navy warship USS Cincinnati is set to dock at Cambodia’s Ream Naval Base on 24 January, marking the first American naval visit to the country this year. The five‑day port call, running until 28 January, comes at a time of heightened regional focus on maritime cooperation and security.

The USS Cincinnati (LCS 20), a 3,000‑ton combat ship measuring nearly 130 metres, will arrive with around 100 crew members. Commanded by Andrew J. Recame, the vessel is equipped with advanced systems, including aerial capabilities, underscoring the technological edge of the US Navy’s littoral combat fleet.

The visit coincides with the arrival of Admiral Samuel Paparo, Commander of the US Indo‑Pacific Command. His presence in Cambodia signals the strategic weight of the occasion. Admiral Paparo is expected to meet senior Cambodian leaders and preside over the opening of joint naval training exercises, bringing together personnel from both navies in a rare show of cooperation.

For Cambodia, the docking of the USS Cincinnati is notable as Ream Naval Base continues to showcase its modernisation. Renovated and reopened in 2025, the base has already welcomed naval ships from Japan and Viet Nam. The Cincinnati’s arrival marks the third foreign vessel to use the upgraded facilities, highlighting Cambodia’s growing role as a host for international maritime activity.

The port call is more than ceremonial. It reflects Washington’s intent to maintain a visible presence in Southeast Asia, where maritime disputes and strategic competition remain pressing concerns. For Phnom Penh, it offers an opportunity to balance relations with major powers while demonstrating openness to joint training and dialogue.

While details of the exercises remain limited, officials emphasise that the programme will focus on building trust, enhancing operational skills, and reinforcing maritime safety. The symbolism of a US warship at Ream, however, is likely to resonate beyond the drills themselves, feeding into wider discussions about Cambodia’s place in the Indo‑Pacific security landscape.

As the USS Cincinnati prepares to dock, attention will turn to how this visit shapes perceptions of Cambodia’s naval base and its willingness to engage with partners across the region.

-2026-01-25

There's a reason why it docked there and not "here"....they could've literally docked anywhere in Thailand but after Thailand ( as usual ) hasn't done anything of importance in this region for decades, their relationship with the U.S. is really odd. I mean how can you give the past election to someone other than who the populous voted for...yeah, I know...the kettle is black..BUT people actually voted for Trump, 5555.

Thailand has no military influence at all in this region, other than som tam and several Buddha statues near the borders with ....

Cambodia on the other hand.....well they have no influence either, 5555. They just don't have many expectations and probably charged less to dock so the U.S. was eagerly waiting to cruise into port. We love Thailand as why most of us are here but they will always remain stuck in their own heads.

When you look up " Stubborn" in the dictionary, it should only include a photo of Thailand. Oh and a photo of China...their secret closest BOSS! I only wish I could submit my retirement documents without given the evil eye (never been denied). For those that have been here a long time, things use to be great. You could actually watch TV in the immigration office without male officers trying to berate you in thai language (even when you understand what they are saying) and women who would greet you and treat you with kindness. I miss that Thailand. Optimistic about the new election but what could go wrong, 55555. Good day to everyone.

Boring read. Up way too early. Coffee is on me gents.

5 hours ago, fanof3d said:

Optimistic about the new election but what could go wrong,

Everything, I hope.

I live in Camboldia and the USS Cincinnati and its crew are most welcome:

Reference Khmer Times 26/1/2026

Prime Minister Hun Manet on Monday received a courtesy call from Admiral Samuel Paparo, Commander of the United States Indo-Pacific Command, at the Peace Palace, with the two sides holding discussions on matters of mutual interest amid a landmark US naval visit to Cambodia.

The meeting took place as the Independence-variant littoral combat ship USS Cincinnati arrived at Ream Naval Base for a five-day port call lasting until January 28. The visit marks the first time a US Navy warship has docked at the base.

The USS Cincinnati, commanded by Cmdr Andrew Recame, is carrying around 100 naval personnel. The port visit is seen as a significant step in strengthening military-to-military engagement and confidence-building between Cambodia and the United States.

For those of you who are not aware, PM Hun Manet of Cambodia is a graduate of the West Point Military Academy in the USA. (Google)