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.
- With Xi Jinping arriving in the US this week for his state visit, both sides have been posturing before his meeting with President Obama. US National Security Adviser Susan Rice warned that Chinese 'cyber espionage' must stop.
- There are also reports that the Obama Administration is considering a stronger response to China's island-building in the South China Sea.
- Senator John McCain has used the news about a Chinese fighter making an 'unsafe' intercept of a US surveillance aircraft earlier this month to lambaste the Obama Administration on its China policy.
- Some inside the PLA may be unhappy with Xi Jinping's announcement that China's troop numbers will be reduced by 300,000.
- Russia's Pacific Fleet submarine base is being upgraded.
- Indonesia's Defence Minister has announced that the country is considering purchasing five new submarines from Russia.
- Performance data for China's fifth-generation fighter, the J-31, has been 'leaked' online.
- Lastly, the US and India have concluded their first Strategic and Commercial Dialogue.