The use of autonomous military systems in the maritime environment has lately become a matter of ... more The use of autonomous military systems in the maritime environment has lately become a matter of immense interest—or concern (depending upon which ‘side of the fence’ you stand)—for national security and operational planners. International law is still evolving with regard to such innovation in naval warfighting technology. This paper begins by tracing the historic trends relating to the development of such unmanned maritime systems (UMS) by the global powers up to the present times. The central aim of this article is to deliberate upon their lawful employment for India and its lawful responses to such employment by its potential adversaries during peace and war. It attempts to clarify these issues through an incisive interpretation of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea, 1982 and the Law of Armed Conflict (LOAC).
National Maritime Foundation (NMF) web publication, 2024
The dynamic Indo-Pacific region witnessed another seminal development in May 2024: the formation ... more The dynamic Indo-Pacific region witnessed another seminal development in May 2024: the formation of “SQUAD” comprising Australia, Japan, the Philippines and the US. The SQUAD is an addition to the QUAD, the key minilateral grouping in the Indo-Pacific architecture comprising Australia, India, Japan and the US. This leads to a few valid questions? Why did the US go beyond the QUAD to raise more exclusive minilateral forums such as AUKUS and the SQUAD? Why was the QUAD itself not expanded instead? Has the QUAD lost relevance for the US? If so, is the SQUAD an alternative to the QUAD? This policy-brief answers these questions.
National Security (Vivekananda International Foundation), 2023
As an area where the geostrategic frontiers of most major powers intersect, the south-west Pacifi... more As an area where the geostrategic frontiers of most major powers intersect, the south-west Pacific Ocean is likely to be the next arena of major geopolitical contestation in the Indo-Pacific Region. Lately, India’s vital interests have also expanded to this sub-region. This has ushered India’s politico-diplomatic engagement with the Pacific Island Developing States (PIDS) under its policy initiatives like “SAGAR.” The policy brief argues that as New Delhi expands its outreach to PIDS in multiple functional domains like climate change, blue economy and connectivity, the Indian Navy must necessarily be involved beyond its occasional warship port calls. The rationale is driven by various factors. The foremost is the fact that navies are valuable instruments of the nation’s foreign policy. Secondly, the PIDS are in dire need for trusted security partners like India. Thirdly, some of India’s critical military-strategic imperatives vis-à vis China lie in the south-west Pacific area.
This essay traces the origins of the Indo-Pacific Concept back to 2006, and examines its developm... more This essay traces the origins of the Indo-Pacific Concept back to 2006, and examines its development to the present times. More specifically, it traces the emergence of the subtle divergences among the Indo-Pacific partners, which has led to the disaggregation of the Concept to 'hard' and 'soft' Indo-Pacific.
Abstract The current trajectory of India–US relations is encouraging, but needs to be sustained b... more Abstract The current trajectory of India–US relations is encouraging, but needs to be sustained by optimising their maritime-strategic convergence. In the maritime-configured Indo-Pacific region, the two countries could undertake substantive ‘transactions’ in the domain of geopolitics and military-strategic cooperation. In this context, the article examines four key aspects: the ‘restrictiveness’ and ‘permissiveness’ of India’s cornerstone policy of ‘strategic autonomy’; the emerging imperative for their navies to go beyond ‘combined exercises’ to ‘combined operations’; their joint efforts to uphold established norms and tenets of international law, while also recognising their nuanced differences on the interpretation of the law; and to progress defence trade and defence-industry cooperation. The article concludes with specific recommendations on each of these key aspects.
ABSTRACT Lately, China’s politico-diplomatic and economic engagements with the Indian Ocean litto... more ABSTRACT Lately, China’s politico-diplomatic and economic engagements with the Indian Ocean littorals, and its naval activities in the region, have become increasingly conspicuous. This paper aims to undertake a comprehensive assessment, not only of the trends, but also of the underlying factors shaping these trends, which makes China potentially an Indian Ocean power. The underlying factors examined are China's economic, strategic and geopolitical objectives and imperatives, and its national strategy – including its maritime military strategy – in the region. The paper concludes with a prognosis, and its implications for the region and India.
Vivekananda International Foundation (VIF) Policy Brief, 2023
On August 8-10, 2023, Malaysia’s Institute of Strategic and International Studies (ISIS) conducte... more On August 8-10, 2023, Malaysia’s Institute of Strategic and International Studies (ISIS) conducted a seminal international conference called the 36th Asia-Pacific Roundtable. Towards the overarching aim of maintaining ASEAN centrality in regional security affairs, ISIS Malaysia—as part of the ASEAN-Institutes of Strategic and International Studies (ASEAN-ISIS)—has been conducting the APR since 1987. This paper provides an overview of the discussions held
The Indo-Pacific Geopolitical OBSERVATORY, IRIS, France, 2023
The Indo-Pacific idea was conceived in 2006-07 due to the growing realization that the security o... more The Indo-Pacific idea was conceived in 2006-07 due to the growing realization that the security of the Western Pacific littoral states was becoming closely intertwined with the developments in the Indian Ocean Region. There is hardly a comparable concept in history like the Indo-Pacific, which has become so central to the global geopolitical discourse in a short span of less than two decades. This paper traces the evolution of the Indo-Pacific concept since its origin to understand its transformative journey to the present day.
These are detailed answers to some key questions relating to the South China Sea maritime dispute... more These are detailed answers to some key questions relating to the South China Sea maritime disputes, published in The Foreign Policy Research Institute (FPRC) Journal.
KIMS Periscope (Korea Institute for Maritime Strategy) , 2022
In the foreseeable future of Indo-Pacific region, the most overwhelming maritime insecurity chall... more In the foreseeable future of Indo-Pacific region, the most overwhelming maritime insecurity challenge will emanate from China’s geopolitical contestation with the West (possibly in collusion with Russia), leading to an intentional or inadvertent military escalation at sea. The ongoing Ukraine crisis portends this. Notwithstanding the fact that the ongoing European War is largely a ‘heart-land’ continental affair, it nonetheless provides relevant lessons for the maritime Indo-Pacific by exposing the fragility of the UN-led international order. Also, the precursors of the Ukraine crisis mirror the insecurities, motivations and alignments in the Indo-Pacific ‘rim-land’.
Until recently, Seoul has been under pressure to choose between the US-led Indo-Pacific Strategy ... more Until recently, Seoul has been under pressure to choose between the US-led Indo-Pacific Strategy (IPS) and China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). In this paper published in August 2021, we undertook a detailed appraisal of the IPS and the BRI in the context of Korea’s national policy imperatives. We suggested to Seoul that participating in the IPS may make more room for an independent foreign policy than would a BRI partnership with China. South Korea would benefit by participating in the IPS in terms of its national security, striking a favourable regional balance of power. Accordingly, in December 2022, Seoul articulated its Indo-Pacific Strategy.
This research paper on Maritime Domain Awareness (MDA) was commissioned by the Korea Institute of... more This research paper on Maritime Domain Awareness (MDA) was commissioned by the Korea Institute of Maritime Strategy (KIMS), Seoul. Whereas the project was meant to be an initial and tentative academic attempt to develop the MDA concept for South Korea, it helps to understand and compare the MDA architecture of the key Indo-Pacific states and stakeholders: the Quad (Australia, India, Japan, and the US), Maritime Southeast Asia, Canada, the UK, France and, collectively, the EU. Although not much is known in the open sources about the specifics of China’s MDA organization and capacity, the paper also attempts to examine this to the extent possible.
This paper aims to unravel the challenges posed by differing geopolitical conceptualizations of t... more This paper aims to unravel the challenges posed by differing geopolitical conceptualizations of the INDO-PACIFIC. These relate to the concepts of geostrategic frontiers; holistic security; free, open and rules-based order; and inclusiveness. It attempts to identify and reconcile the differences and contradictions among the key players. The way ahead may lie in instituting a regional architecture comprising 'plurilateral' arrangements to foster easier multilateral cooperation at conceptual, political and functional levels, and guided by a thematic prioritization.
Why has India become a key actor in the maritime-configured Indo-Pacific region? Its geo-strategi... more Why has India become a key actor in the maritime-configured Indo-Pacific region? Its geo-strategic frontier encompassing its geopolitical and maritime interests is expanding rapidly beyond its territorial space across both the Indian and Pacific oceans amidst an increasingly arduous geopolitical and security environment. India must, therefore, acquire the ability to influence events within this strategic arena using all facets of national power, including maritime-military power. Lately, therefore, New Delhi has invested much intellectual capital to review its maritime-security strategy.
India’s new strategy is premised on the concept of holistic security involving the ‘softer’ aspects of maritime-security, and a rekindling of maritime consciousness in India, a nation that has traditionally been beset by ‘sea-blindness’. The strategy adopts a region-wide, inclusive, and a more proactive approach than hitherto, as is evident in its title ‘Ensuring Secure Seas: Indian Maritime Security Strategy’. While it deals with the growing concern of new non-traditional threats in the Indian littoral and the need for military deterrence and preparedness, it also addresses the imperatives for India to seek a favorable and rules-based benign environment in its immediate and extended maritime periphery, including through multi-vectored strategic partnerships dictated by its enduring principle of strategic autonomy.
For a more profound and comprehensive understanding of India's maritime-security strategy, this paper examines the key unstated and implicit factors that underpin the strategy. These include India's historical and cultural evolution as a nation; its strategic geography; its geopolitical and security perceptions; and the political directions to its security forces. The paper deals specifically with India’s response to maritime threats ranging from natural disasters, crime and state-sponsored terrorism to those posed by Pakistan and China, as well as the Indian Navy’s envisaged security role East of the Malacca Straits. It also analyzes the aspects of organizational restructuring and force planning of India’s maritime-security forces.
The centre-of-gravity of world‘s economic power is shifting eastwards to the ‗Indo-Pacific‘, a ma... more The centre-of-gravity of world‘s economic power is shifting eastwards to the ‗Indo-Pacific‘, a maritime-configured macro-region that spans the maritime underbelly of Asia connecting the Indian and the western Pacific oceans. The security environment in the Indian Ocean and the western Pacific are different; nonetheless, strong maritime security linkages emerging between the two oceans has led to the reincarnation of the concept of ‗Indo-Pacific‘. Since the turn of the 21st century, new maritime insecurities have taken root, including in terms of China‘s revisionist positions on the established maritime order. Notwithstanding the US response in the western Pacific and the recent articulation of its ‗Indo-Pacific‘ strategy, it is unclear how the regional countries and the major regional stakeholders willmanage to address the emerging maritime insecurities in the Indian Ocean, including in terms of China‘s expanding politico-military footprint. This paper attempts to examine the securi...
The use of autonomous military systems in the maritime environment has lately become a matter of ... more The use of autonomous military systems in the maritime environment has lately become a matter of immense interest—or concern (depending upon which ‘side of the fence’ you stand)—for national security and operational planners. International law is still evolving with regard to such innovation in naval warfighting technology. This paper begins by tracing the historic trends relating to the development of such unmanned maritime systems (UMS) by the global powers up to the present times. The central aim of this article is to deliberate upon their lawful employment for India and its lawful responses to such employment by its potential adversaries during peace and war. It attempts to clarify these issues through an incisive interpretation of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea, 1982 and the Law of Armed Conflict (LOAC).
National Maritime Foundation (NMF) web publication, 2024
The dynamic Indo-Pacific region witnessed another seminal development in May 2024: the formation ... more The dynamic Indo-Pacific region witnessed another seminal development in May 2024: the formation of “SQUAD” comprising Australia, Japan, the Philippines and the US. The SQUAD is an addition to the QUAD, the key minilateral grouping in the Indo-Pacific architecture comprising Australia, India, Japan and the US. This leads to a few valid questions? Why did the US go beyond the QUAD to raise more exclusive minilateral forums such as AUKUS and the SQUAD? Why was the QUAD itself not expanded instead? Has the QUAD lost relevance for the US? If so, is the SQUAD an alternative to the QUAD? This policy-brief answers these questions.
National Security (Vivekananda International Foundation), 2023
As an area where the geostrategic frontiers of most major powers intersect, the south-west Pacifi... more As an area where the geostrategic frontiers of most major powers intersect, the south-west Pacific Ocean is likely to be the next arena of major geopolitical contestation in the Indo-Pacific Region. Lately, India’s vital interests have also expanded to this sub-region. This has ushered India’s politico-diplomatic engagement with the Pacific Island Developing States (PIDS) under its policy initiatives like “SAGAR.” The policy brief argues that as New Delhi expands its outreach to PIDS in multiple functional domains like climate change, blue economy and connectivity, the Indian Navy must necessarily be involved beyond its occasional warship port calls. The rationale is driven by various factors. The foremost is the fact that navies are valuable instruments of the nation’s foreign policy. Secondly, the PIDS are in dire need for trusted security partners like India. Thirdly, some of India’s critical military-strategic imperatives vis-à vis China lie in the south-west Pacific area.
This essay traces the origins of the Indo-Pacific Concept back to 2006, and examines its developm... more This essay traces the origins of the Indo-Pacific Concept back to 2006, and examines its development to the present times. More specifically, it traces the emergence of the subtle divergences among the Indo-Pacific partners, which has led to the disaggregation of the Concept to 'hard' and 'soft' Indo-Pacific.
Abstract The current trajectory of India–US relations is encouraging, but needs to be sustained b... more Abstract The current trajectory of India–US relations is encouraging, but needs to be sustained by optimising their maritime-strategic convergence. In the maritime-configured Indo-Pacific region, the two countries could undertake substantive ‘transactions’ in the domain of geopolitics and military-strategic cooperation. In this context, the article examines four key aspects: the ‘restrictiveness’ and ‘permissiveness’ of India’s cornerstone policy of ‘strategic autonomy’; the emerging imperative for their navies to go beyond ‘combined exercises’ to ‘combined operations’; their joint efforts to uphold established norms and tenets of international law, while also recognising their nuanced differences on the interpretation of the law; and to progress defence trade and defence-industry cooperation. The article concludes with specific recommendations on each of these key aspects.
ABSTRACT Lately, China’s politico-diplomatic and economic engagements with the Indian Ocean litto... more ABSTRACT Lately, China’s politico-diplomatic and economic engagements with the Indian Ocean littorals, and its naval activities in the region, have become increasingly conspicuous. This paper aims to undertake a comprehensive assessment, not only of the trends, but also of the underlying factors shaping these trends, which makes China potentially an Indian Ocean power. The underlying factors examined are China's economic, strategic and geopolitical objectives and imperatives, and its national strategy – including its maritime military strategy – in the region. The paper concludes with a prognosis, and its implications for the region and India.
Vivekananda International Foundation (VIF) Policy Brief, 2023
On August 8-10, 2023, Malaysia’s Institute of Strategic and International Studies (ISIS) conducte... more On August 8-10, 2023, Malaysia’s Institute of Strategic and International Studies (ISIS) conducted a seminal international conference called the 36th Asia-Pacific Roundtable. Towards the overarching aim of maintaining ASEAN centrality in regional security affairs, ISIS Malaysia—as part of the ASEAN-Institutes of Strategic and International Studies (ASEAN-ISIS)—has been conducting the APR since 1987. This paper provides an overview of the discussions held
The Indo-Pacific Geopolitical OBSERVATORY, IRIS, France, 2023
The Indo-Pacific idea was conceived in 2006-07 due to the growing realization that the security o... more The Indo-Pacific idea was conceived in 2006-07 due to the growing realization that the security of the Western Pacific littoral states was becoming closely intertwined with the developments in the Indian Ocean Region. There is hardly a comparable concept in history like the Indo-Pacific, which has become so central to the global geopolitical discourse in a short span of less than two decades. This paper traces the evolution of the Indo-Pacific concept since its origin to understand its transformative journey to the present day.
These are detailed answers to some key questions relating to the South China Sea maritime dispute... more These are detailed answers to some key questions relating to the South China Sea maritime disputes, published in The Foreign Policy Research Institute (FPRC) Journal.
KIMS Periscope (Korea Institute for Maritime Strategy) , 2022
In the foreseeable future of Indo-Pacific region, the most overwhelming maritime insecurity chall... more In the foreseeable future of Indo-Pacific region, the most overwhelming maritime insecurity challenge will emanate from China’s geopolitical contestation with the West (possibly in collusion with Russia), leading to an intentional or inadvertent military escalation at sea. The ongoing Ukraine crisis portends this. Notwithstanding the fact that the ongoing European War is largely a ‘heart-land’ continental affair, it nonetheless provides relevant lessons for the maritime Indo-Pacific by exposing the fragility of the UN-led international order. Also, the precursors of the Ukraine crisis mirror the insecurities, motivations and alignments in the Indo-Pacific ‘rim-land’.
Until recently, Seoul has been under pressure to choose between the US-led Indo-Pacific Strategy ... more Until recently, Seoul has been under pressure to choose between the US-led Indo-Pacific Strategy (IPS) and China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). In this paper published in August 2021, we undertook a detailed appraisal of the IPS and the BRI in the context of Korea’s national policy imperatives. We suggested to Seoul that participating in the IPS may make more room for an independent foreign policy than would a BRI partnership with China. South Korea would benefit by participating in the IPS in terms of its national security, striking a favourable regional balance of power. Accordingly, in December 2022, Seoul articulated its Indo-Pacific Strategy.
This research paper on Maritime Domain Awareness (MDA) was commissioned by the Korea Institute of... more This research paper on Maritime Domain Awareness (MDA) was commissioned by the Korea Institute of Maritime Strategy (KIMS), Seoul. Whereas the project was meant to be an initial and tentative academic attempt to develop the MDA concept for South Korea, it helps to understand and compare the MDA architecture of the key Indo-Pacific states and stakeholders: the Quad (Australia, India, Japan, and the US), Maritime Southeast Asia, Canada, the UK, France and, collectively, the EU. Although not much is known in the open sources about the specifics of China’s MDA organization and capacity, the paper also attempts to examine this to the extent possible.
This paper aims to unravel the challenges posed by differing geopolitical conceptualizations of t... more This paper aims to unravel the challenges posed by differing geopolitical conceptualizations of the INDO-PACIFIC. These relate to the concepts of geostrategic frontiers; holistic security; free, open and rules-based order; and inclusiveness. It attempts to identify and reconcile the differences and contradictions among the key players. The way ahead may lie in instituting a regional architecture comprising 'plurilateral' arrangements to foster easier multilateral cooperation at conceptual, political and functional levels, and guided by a thematic prioritization.
Why has India become a key actor in the maritime-configured Indo-Pacific region? Its geo-strategi... more Why has India become a key actor in the maritime-configured Indo-Pacific region? Its geo-strategic frontier encompassing its geopolitical and maritime interests is expanding rapidly beyond its territorial space across both the Indian and Pacific oceans amidst an increasingly arduous geopolitical and security environment. India must, therefore, acquire the ability to influence events within this strategic arena using all facets of national power, including maritime-military power. Lately, therefore, New Delhi has invested much intellectual capital to review its maritime-security strategy.
India’s new strategy is premised on the concept of holistic security involving the ‘softer’ aspects of maritime-security, and a rekindling of maritime consciousness in India, a nation that has traditionally been beset by ‘sea-blindness’. The strategy adopts a region-wide, inclusive, and a more proactive approach than hitherto, as is evident in its title ‘Ensuring Secure Seas: Indian Maritime Security Strategy’. While it deals with the growing concern of new non-traditional threats in the Indian littoral and the need for military deterrence and preparedness, it also addresses the imperatives for India to seek a favorable and rules-based benign environment in its immediate and extended maritime periphery, including through multi-vectored strategic partnerships dictated by its enduring principle of strategic autonomy.
For a more profound and comprehensive understanding of India's maritime-security strategy, this paper examines the key unstated and implicit factors that underpin the strategy. These include India's historical and cultural evolution as a nation; its strategic geography; its geopolitical and security perceptions; and the political directions to its security forces. The paper deals specifically with India’s response to maritime threats ranging from natural disasters, crime and state-sponsored terrorism to those posed by Pakistan and China, as well as the Indian Navy’s envisaged security role East of the Malacca Straits. It also analyzes the aspects of organizational restructuring and force planning of India’s maritime-security forces.
The centre-of-gravity of world‘s economic power is shifting eastwards to the ‗Indo-Pacific‘, a ma... more The centre-of-gravity of world‘s economic power is shifting eastwards to the ‗Indo-Pacific‘, a maritime-configured macro-region that spans the maritime underbelly of Asia connecting the Indian and the western Pacific oceans. The security environment in the Indian Ocean and the western Pacific are different; nonetheless, strong maritime security linkages emerging between the two oceans has led to the reincarnation of the concept of ‗Indo-Pacific‘. Since the turn of the 21st century, new maritime insecurities have taken root, including in terms of China‘s revisionist positions on the established maritime order. Notwithstanding the US response in the western Pacific and the recent articulation of its ‗Indo-Pacific‘ strategy, it is unclear how the regional countries and the major regional stakeholders willmanage to address the emerging maritime insecurities in the Indian Ocean, including in terms of China‘s expanding politico-military footprint. This paper attempts to examine the securi...
International Law Studies, US Naval War College, Newport, 2023
The Newport Manual of 2023 is the most recent and updated restatement of the law pertaining to a... more The Newport Manual of 2023 is the most recent and updated restatement of the law pertaining to armed conflict at sea since 1955. It also factors in the developments in warfighting technologies in recent decades, which have significantly influenced the nature of war at sea. It is meant to be a practical guide for naval commanders, other seafarers, lawyers and officials, and educators and students.
This is a NMF report for the Government of India on recommendations for India's national-strateg... more This is a NMF report for the Government of India on recommendations for India's national-strategy on Indo-Pacific. Chapter 2 of the report carries my work titled, "The ‘Indo-Pacific’ Idea: Origins, Conceptualisations and the Way Ahead".
This is a policy-relevant compilation of commentaries and issue-briefs on key maritime, strategic... more This is a policy-relevant compilation of commentaries and issue-briefs on key maritime, strategic and geopolitical developments in the Indo-Pacific Region in the past year 2018, and published by the National Maritime Foundation (NMF), New Delhi.
This is a policy-relevant compilation of commentaries and issue-briefs on key maritime and geopol... more This is a policy-relevant compilation of commentaries and issue-briefs on key maritime and geopolitical developments in the Indo-Pacific Region in the past year 2017, published by the National Maritime Foundation (NMF), New Delhi.
The Indo-Pacific region stretches from the eastern Indian Ocean shores of Africa and West Asia to... more The Indo-Pacific region stretches from the eastern Indian Ocean shores of Africa and West Asia to the littoral countries of the western Pacific. The region constitutes the ‘maritime underbelly’ of Asia, and is the fastest growing region in the world; and in a few decades, is likely to witness what may be referred to as ‘Renaissance 2.0’. The region is, therefore, ripe with enormous opportunities, not only for regional countries, but also for the rest of the global community. And yet, the region is beset with equally colossal security risks that emanate from inter alia the rise of China - that is not satisfied with ‘status quo’ in the global order including established international law and norms; strategic rivalries and the attendant security dilemma and arms race; issues of governance including maritime jurisdictions; the proliferation of malevolent non-state actors involved in maritime crimes and terrorism; and so on. The book is a collation of commentaries that analyse the trends with regard to the geopolitical and maritime security environment, along with the naval developments, in the Indo-Pacific in the past half-decade or so.
The book is essentially a Compendium of key geopolitical, strategic and maritime terms and concep... more The book is essentially a Compendium of key geopolitical, strategic and maritime terms and concepts, meant for national policy-makers, strategic analysts, the academia and young professionals of seagoing services. All terms and concepts are sequenced in alphabetical order, and listed in the ‘Contents’ section. The explanation of a term (or concept) often draws comparisons with other related term(s), which are italicized and explained in their respective alphabetical sequence. At times, the signification of two terms is so similar—through distinct—that these are often (erroneously) considered synonymous. The Compendium also explains the varying nuances of such terms.
Preface by Admiral RK Dhowan, Chairman NMF:
The seas around us are gaining newfound importance as... more Preface by Admiral RK Dhowan, Chairman NMF: The seas around us are gaining newfound importance as each day goes by, and I have no doubt that the current century is the ‘Century of the Seas’. It is, therefore, the endeavour of the National Maritime Foundation (NMF) to generate greater awareness on ‘matters maritime’ among the wider section of maritime thinkers, bothin India and abroad.The expanding readership of NMF’s scholarship on current strategic, maritime and related geopolitical issues has been encouraging. This is disseminated in the form of View Points and Issue Briefs through the Foundation website, as also through its annual publication ‘Maritime Perspectives’, which puts together analyses of eventsand developments in the Indian Ocean, the Asia Pacific and beyond. It is amply clear that the year 2016 has been as dynamic as the preceding ones in terms of geo-strategic trends and developments. I am confident that Maritime Perspective 2016 would immensely help the strategic and academic communities in India and overseas to better understand these developments and the ramifications.
This edited volume is essentially a compilation of papers presented by Chinese and Indian analyst... more This edited volume is essentially a compilation of papers presented by Chinese and Indian analysts during the Second bilateral dialogue between India's National Maritime Foundation (NMF) and China's Academy for World Watch (AWW), conducted at New Delhi in December 2016.
This edited volume is compilation of View Points and Issue Briefs on topical geopolitical, strat... more This edited volume is compilation of View Points and Issue Briefs on topical geopolitical, strategic, maritime and related issues in the year 2015, and places on record the relevant developments in the Indo-Pacific region.
This edited volume is essentially a compilation of papers presented by Chinese and Indian analyst... more This edited volume is essentially a compilation of papers presented by Chinese and Indian analysts during the first bilateral dialogue between India's National Maritime Foundation (NMF) and China's Academy for World Watch (AWW), conducted at Haikou (Hainan), China.
This edited book is NMF's first compilation of View Points and Issue Briefs on topical geopoliti... more This edited book is NMF's first compilation of View Points and Issue Briefs on topical geopolitical, strategic, maritime and related issues in the year 2014, and places on record the relevant developments in the Indo-Pacific region.
The South China Sea: From a Regional Maritime Dispute to Geo-Strategic Competition, 2020
This presentation was delivered at the 10th South China Sea International Conference Cooperation ... more This presentation was delivered at the 10th South China Sea International Conference Cooperation for Regional Peace and Development, Da Nang (Vietnam) on 8-9 November 2018. It examines the 'less-understood' aspect of FREEDOM OF NAVIGATION (FON) in context of the growing SCS-IOR geopolitical and security linkage. The related paper is published in the Routlege book titled "The South China Sea: From a Regional Maritime Dispute to Geo-Strategic Competition", 2020, also uploaded on Academia.edu ('Papers' section)
This presents an overview of the Indo-Pacific concept in the contemporary geopolitical discourse.... more This presents an overview of the Indo-Pacific concept in the contemporary geopolitical discourse. It examines the genesis of the Indo-Pacific idea, its drivers, and the geopolitical interests, approaches and perspectives of some key actors like the ASEAN, Australia, China, the EU, Japan, and the US, with a specific focus on India. Based on current trends, it also presents a policy-relevant prognosis on the future relevance of the ‘Indo-Pacific’ concept, the emerging regional architecture, and the way forward to meet the objectives of the Indo-Pacific concept. (Detailed recommendations are being provided progressively, through periodic updates).
This is a self-explanatory and simplified version of the presentation made to IFS trainees in New... more This is a self-explanatory and simplified version of the presentation made to IFS trainees in New Delhi on the fundamentals of legal issues pertaining to Freedom of Navigation, which has become highly relevant today due to the increasing prevalence of the 'Indo-Pacific' Concept.
The Indo-Pacific region is re-emerging as an arena of maritime interface between China and India,... more The Indo-Pacific region is re-emerging as an arena of maritime interface between China and India, which last occurred between the ancient Chinese and Indian civilisations for a prolonged duration more than three centuries ago. However, whereas the historic interactions were based on trade and cultural links, the present one is premised on the security connect between the Indian and Pacific oceans that began emerging with the turn of the 21st Century. This paper aims to analyse the regional contestation between China and India against the backdrop of the theories of ‘Security Dilemma’ and ‘Heartland versus Rimland’. The analysis is based on the interplay between the geo-strategies of China and India that seek to meet their geopolitical (including geo-economic) objectives in the region, and their attendant maritime security imperatives. On one hand is China’s emerging ‘Rimland’ orientation, and India’s consequent ‘Indo-Pacific’ response that combines its Act East policy with its vision of SAGAR.
The presentation is based on a paper that argues that as a major power in the maritime-configured... more The presentation is based on a paper that argues that as a major power in the maritime-configured Indo-Pacific region, India would need to make a more pronounced contribution to its humanitarian response beyond its sovereign territorial confines, in various contingencies ranging from disaster-relief and UN peacekeeping to civilian evacuation, and from counter-piracy to search and rescue. This is essential for India, not only to ensure the safety of its own citizens, their property and their means of livelihood, but also to meet its normative commitment as a maritime power, and to project its image as a responsible power and fulfil its broader geopolitical and foreign policy objectives at the regional and global levels. In this direction, recent trends are encouraging. There seems to be a palpable increase in India’s Out of Area (OOA) humanitarian response, enabled largely by the Indian armed forces, including the Indian Coast guard. However, India’s approach may need to be more holistic, more synergetic, and driven by a more articulate doctrine, leading to a more deliberate national strategy. In this context, the paper undertakes an appraisal of India’s current approach at three levels – national, joint-service and service level, and recommends ‘course-corrections’ with regard to the doctrine, organisation and capability aspects. It seeks to endorse its recommendations by examining the case of China, which is contemporary emerging maritime power in the Indo-Pacific region.
This presentation was delivered at Indonesia-India Conference on “How UNCLOS Addresses Emerging I... more This presentation was delivered at Indonesia-India Conference on “How UNCLOS Addresses Emerging Issues in Indo-Pacific”, organised by the Indonesian Embassy, New Delhi, and the India Foundation at Hotel The Leela Palace, New Delhi on 11 December 2018.
This is the 2nd part of the presentation on 'The Indo-Pacific: New Geopolitics of the Asian-centr... more This is the 2nd part of the presentation on 'The Indo-Pacific: New Geopolitics of the Asian-centred Rim-land and the Way Forward', which examines in detail the recommendations with regard to 'Geo-economics, Non-traditional Security and politico-military Confidence-Building'. This presentation is being updated/ revised progressively.
This is the 3rd part of the presentation on 'The Indo-Pacific: New Geopolitics of the Asian-centr... more This is the 3rd part of the presentation on 'The Indo-Pacific: New Geopolitics of the Asian-centred Rim-land and the Way Forward', which examines in detail the recommendations with regard to exerting legal (persuasive and dissuasive) pressures upon China. This presentation is being updated/ revised progressively.
This is the 4th part of the presentation on 'The Indo-Pacific: New Geopolitics of the Asian-centr... more This is the 4th part of the presentation on 'The Indo-Pacific: New Geopolitics of the Asian-centred Rim-land and the Way Forward', which examines in detail the recommendations with regard to maintaining a favourable and stable regional balance of power. This presentation is being updated/ revised progressively.
This is the 5th part of the presentation on 'The Indo-Pacific: New Geopolitics of the Asian-centr... more This is the 5th part of the presentation on 'The Indo-Pacific: New Geopolitics of the Asian-centred Rim-land and the Way Forward', which examines in detail the recommendations with regard to military security, viz the use of military forces as a mechanism for 'assurance' and 'insurance'. This presentation is being updated/ revised progressively.
Many analysts aver that the Bay of Bengal-Andaman Sea combine is fast becoming the next theatre o... more Many analysts aver that the Bay of Bengal-Andaman Sea combine is fast becoming the next theatre of big-power rivalry, after the South China Sea, despite the maritime disputes among India, Bangladesh and China having been resolved. To maintain sub-regional peace, stability and a favourable balance of power, India has taken an initiative to include the maritime security agenda in the BIMSTEC (Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation) sub-regional grouping, which was established in 1997, and comprises seven countries, viz. Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Nepal, Myanmar, Thailand and Sri Lanka. Accordingly, the Vivekananda International Foundation (VIF) in New Delhi and the BIMSTEC Secretariat in Dhaka jointly organised a two-day International Conference on 13-14 November 2018, where the author made the lead presentation.
Rules of Engagement (RoE) are the directives issued by the national authorities to military comma... more Rules of Engagement (RoE) are the directives issued by the national authorities to military commanders, which circumscribe the employment of force. These flow from a body of international laws as well as country-specific political directives. RoE have always been particularly relevant in less-than-war situations, such as during increased tensions between States. In present times, however, the scope of RoE has widened to cater for the increasing involvement of military forces in low-intensity conflict. This presentation aims to present an overview on the concept of RoE and its essential constituents, with particular focus on low-intensity and other operations in the maritime-littoral realm.
This research paper undertakes the study of India's maritime power and multi-dimensional strategy... more This research paper undertakes the study of India's maritime power and multi-dimensional strategy. It investigates the history evolution and limitations of India's maritime strategy, encompassing multifarious aspects like military and non-traditional maritime security; merchant shipping, port logistics and shipbuilding; access to living and non-living marine resources; marine research and education; and maritime diplomacy. This research was conducted in 2023 for Korea Institute for Maritime Strategy (KIMS), Seoul as inputs for South Korea's maritime strategy formulation.
Much analyses on Hong Kong unrest is predisposed towards liberal democracy espoused by the West. ... more Much analyses on Hong Kong unrest is predisposed towards liberal democracy espoused by the West. However, every coin has two faces. So, are we assimilating only the unidimensional view propagated by the West and English-language media? This issue-brief provides an alternative holistic perspective.
On 11-13 Oct 19, the Indian Prime Minister hosted the Chinese President at the coastal tourist re... more On 11-13 Oct 19, the Indian Prime Minister hosted the Chinese President at the coastal tourist resort of Mahabalipuram near Chennai for the second informal Summit meeting. This issue-brief analyses the salient takeaways of the context of the first one at Wuhan, and the current developments in India-China relations.
The 70th anniversary of the founding of the PRC on 01 Oct 19 was marked by the biggest ever parad... more The 70th anniversary of the founding of the PRC on 01 Oct 19 was marked by the biggest ever parade in Beijing’s Tiananmen Square. This brief analyses the event in the midst of seminal geopolitical developments involving China, inter alia the elevation of Xi Jinping as China’s President for life, China’s geopolitical rivalry and ‘trade war’ with the US, and the popular unrest in Hong Kong. From the Indian perspective, this needs to be contextualized with China’s earnest to reorder the global order, beginning with a China-led unipolar Asia; and specifically, for the Indian Navy, its increasing military-strategic foot-print in the Indian Ocean.
In Jul 19, China released its new defence white paper, "China's National Defence in the New Era".... more In Jul 19, China released its new defence white paper, "China's National Defence in the New Era". Notably, the title draws upon the thought developed by President Xi Jinping, “Socialism with Chinese Characteristics for a New Era”. This brief analyses the document in the context of the seminal geopolitical developments since the last White Paper published in 2015, notably the assumption of the office by the current US President (Jan 17), the India-China Dokhlam military stand-off (Jun-Aug 17), inauguration of China's first overseas military base in Djibouti (Aug 17) and President Trump's enunciation of “Indo-Pacific” concept during his Asia tour (Nov 17).
This strategy of China's Deng Xiaoping was to “observe calmly, secure our position, cope with aff... more This strategy of China's Deng Xiaoping was to “observe calmly, secure our position, cope with affairs calmly, hide our capacities and bide our time, be good at maintaining a low profile, and never claim leadership” Today, Beijing has clearly deviated from this tenet and under the garb of ‘striving for achievement’, it has been increasing its politico-military assertiveness in the conduct of its international relations. One wonders why, since China may be doing much harm to its own image as a responsible world power. The book under review aptly answers this conundrum.
Uploads
like India. Thirdly, some of India’s critical military-strategic imperatives vis-à vis China lie in the south-west Pacific area.
India’s new strategy is premised on the concept of holistic security involving the ‘softer’ aspects of maritime-security, and a rekindling of maritime consciousness in India, a nation that has traditionally been beset by ‘sea-blindness’. The strategy adopts a region-wide, inclusive, and a more proactive approach than hitherto, as is evident in its title ‘Ensuring Secure Seas: Indian Maritime Security Strategy’. While it deals with the growing concern of new non-traditional threats in the Indian littoral and the need for military deterrence and preparedness, it also addresses the imperatives for India to seek a favorable and rules-based benign environment in its immediate and extended maritime periphery, including through multi-vectored strategic partnerships dictated by its enduring principle of strategic autonomy.
For a more profound and comprehensive understanding of India's maritime-security strategy, this paper examines the key unstated and implicit factors that underpin the strategy. These include India's historical and cultural evolution as a nation; its strategic geography; its geopolitical and security perceptions; and the political directions to its security forces. The paper deals specifically with India’s response to maritime threats ranging from natural disasters, crime and state-sponsored terrorism to those posed by Pakistan and China, as well as the Indian Navy’s envisaged security role East of the Malacca Straits. It also analyzes the aspects of organizational restructuring and force planning of India’s maritime-security forces.
like India. Thirdly, some of India’s critical military-strategic imperatives vis-à vis China lie in the south-west Pacific area.
India’s new strategy is premised on the concept of holistic security involving the ‘softer’ aspects of maritime-security, and a rekindling of maritime consciousness in India, a nation that has traditionally been beset by ‘sea-blindness’. The strategy adopts a region-wide, inclusive, and a more proactive approach than hitherto, as is evident in its title ‘Ensuring Secure Seas: Indian Maritime Security Strategy’. While it deals with the growing concern of new non-traditional threats in the Indian littoral and the need for military deterrence and preparedness, it also addresses the imperatives for India to seek a favorable and rules-based benign environment in its immediate and extended maritime periphery, including through multi-vectored strategic partnerships dictated by its enduring principle of strategic autonomy.
For a more profound and comprehensive understanding of India's maritime-security strategy, this paper examines the key unstated and implicit factors that underpin the strategy. These include India's historical and cultural evolution as a nation; its strategic geography; its geopolitical and security perceptions; and the political directions to its security forces. The paper deals specifically with India’s response to maritime threats ranging from natural disasters, crime and state-sponsored terrorism to those posed by Pakistan and China, as well as the Indian Navy’s envisaged security role East of the Malacca Straits. It also analyzes the aspects of organizational restructuring and force planning of India’s maritime-security forces.
The seas around us are gaining newfound importance as each day goes by, and I have no doubt that the current century is the ‘Century of the Seas’. It is, therefore, the endeavour of the National Maritime Foundation (NMF) to generate greater awareness on ‘matters maritime’ among the wider section of maritime thinkers, bothin India and abroad.The expanding readership of NMF’s scholarship on current strategic, maritime and related geopolitical issues has been encouraging. This is disseminated in the form of View Points and Issue Briefs through the Foundation website, as also through its annual publication ‘Maritime Perspectives’, which puts together analyses of eventsand developments in the Indian Ocean, the Asia Pacific and beyond. It is amply clear that the year 2016 has been as dynamic as the preceding ones in terms of geo-strategic trends and developments. I am confident that Maritime
Perspective 2016 would immensely help the strategic and academic communities in India and overseas to better understand these developments and the ramifications.
Foundation (NMF) and China's Academy for World Watch (AWW), conducted at New Delhi in December 2016.
Foundation (NMF) and China's Academy for World Watch (AWW), conducted at Haikou (Hainan), China.
shipping, port logistics and shipbuilding; access to living and non-living marine resources; marine research and education; and maritime diplomacy. This research was conducted in 2023 for Korea Institute for Maritime Strategy (KIMS), Seoul as inputs for South Korea's maritime strategy formulation.