Cambodia says it is getting two new warships from China. It's the latest indication of Beijing's expanding military influence in the region.

Cambodia's Defense Ministry says the ships are scheduled to be completed and delivered next year at the earliest. China is also helping the country expand a naval base. It's situated in a strategic location near the South China Sea, where Beijing and Southeast Asian countries claim territorial rights.

A US think tank said in April that two other Chinese naval vessels had been moored at the base for over four months.

The Cambodian government said the ships it is getting are for the sole purpose of strengthening Cambodia's ability to maintain peace and stability.