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.
- RIMPAC (the Rim of the Pacific Exercise) 2014 starts today and for the first time China will participate. The Chinese Navy hopes to 'advertise some new capabilities and garner sorely needed experience in expeditionary operations and naval professionalism.'
- David Shambaugh argues that China is having very little influence over international affairs, particularly on Syria and Ukraine.
- PR Chari argues that India needs to revise its nuclear doctrine.
- Retired PLA officer Lt Gen Wang Hongguang responds to Kyle Mizokami's National Interest piece mentioned in last week's Indo-Pacific links. (Thanks Aaron.)
- Jim Holmes outlines five reasons why India has a strategic maritime advantage over China in the Indian Ocean. Even if India's sea-based nuclear deterrent still remains ill-equipped for sea-trials.
- Japan and the Philippines reach common ground on collective self-defence vis-à-vis China. But at home, obstacles remain for Abe to truly realise his will for Japan to 'play an even greater and more proactive role,' thereby 'making peace in Asia and the world more certain.'
- India's Nixon? What Chinese analysts think of Narendra Modi.
The Lowy Institute International Security Program's work on Indo-Pacific security is supported by two grants from the John D and Catherine T MacArthur Foundation.