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.
- The Economist made nuclear weapons a cover story this week. It is well worth reading in regards to the growing role nuclear weapons are playing in the security architecture of the Indo-Pacific. Also, as if on cue, Pakistan successfully tested an updated and longer-ranged version of its Shaheen ballistic missile.
- Chancellor Angela Merkel, on a state visit to Japan earlier this week, spoke on 'the spirit of reconciliation' and offered lessons from Germany's past as a way to calm tensions in Northeast Asia.
- Two retired Japanese admirals are arguing that industrial cooperation between Japan and Australia on submarine technology and construction would 'provide strategic and operational flexibility to the US rebalancing policy.'
- Japan is also increasing its security cooperation with others in the region. In the next several months, Japan will hold its first naval exercise with the Philippines and Japanese military doctors are advising Vietnamese submariners on how to cope with decompression sickness. This will most likely assist Vietnam in operating its six new Russian-built Kilo-class submarines.
- Are air-intercept missions over the East China Sea wearing out Japan's fighter pilots?
- On Tuesday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi began an Indian Ocean tour in an effort to bolster India's strategic presence in Sri Lanka, Seychelles and Mauritius. Meanwhile, Syed Fazl-e-Haider is arguing that Gwadar port in Pakistan will be critical for China's energy security across the Indo-Pacific.
- China has commenced construction of its first indigenous aircraft carrier.
- Are the Chinese economy's strengths now turning into weaknesses?