The Indo-Pacific is a strategic system encompassing the Indian and Pacific oceans, reflecting the expanding interests and reach of China and India as well as the enduring role of the US. The Lowy Institute's International Security program presents a weekly selection of links illuminating the changing security picture in this increasingly connected super-region.
- Shortly after the Obama Administration cleared the way for the sale of armed drones to some US allies, it has been revealed that Australian military personnel are already in the US training on the Reaper. Australia is also attempting to expand its involvement in the further development of the maritime surveillance Triton drone, of which it has committed to buy seven.
- Indonesia has threatened to 're-evaluate' its defence procurement deals with Brazil after a major dispute over the execution of a Brazilian national charged with drug smuggling.
- India is pushing ahead with construction of another aircraft carrier, with its two existing carriers under strain; the 56-year old INS Viraat will be decommissioned in 2016 and the MiG-29Ks of the INS Vikramaditya are experiencing engine trouble.
- Beijing has reportedly accelerated construction on islands it occupies in the South China Sea. The debate continues over whether this is to bolster a legal claim or for more strategic reasons.
- Also, an interesting argument in Information Dissemination for placing US military personnel on allied ships in the South China Sea.
- Stephen Hadley and Paul Haenle examine the trajectory of US-China bilateral ties, and the attempt to move towards a 'strategic partnership'.
- Lastly, there are further reports that North Korea is experimenting with submarine-launched ballistic missile technology.