The Jacques Yves Cousteau claims that “The sea, once it casts its spell, holds one in its net of wonder forever.” The ocean displays its strength to humans according to Jacques Yves Cousteau in the current era of globalization which defines the ocean as the main challenge facing commercial operations and international security and geopolitical initiatives.
Indian Ocean serves as lifeline of international trade due to substantial portion of worldwide commerce alongside energy supplies
The Indian Ocean serves as lifeline of international trade because it supports substantial portions of worldwide commerce alongside energy supplies. The strategic significance of this maritime region extends dramatically because global power systems are developing into a multi-polar world structure. The research investigates how India’s maritime forces are changing as well as how these developments impact Pakistan together with the larger Indo-Pacific strategic domain. With the arrival of a multidimensional global order with many dominant players, the regional military alliances are likely to undergo a change while the strategic discussions in the region will transform for sure.
Indian maritime dominance strategies enabled it to become a regional power
Within the Indian Ocean, asserting influence and ensuring security are not just matters of national interest but a strategic imperative to be pursued. The Indian maritime domain in history could achieve its unique strength through the establishment of its very solid and strong international trade relations with various regions across Asia and Africa, as well as other continents. India now has to face a lot of challenges in national security strategies because it realizes the importance of naval power development.
Pakistan’s strategic interests are linked to Gwadar port and China Pakistan Economic Corridor
The current Indian national security strategy demonstrates specific institutional modifications which center on developing maritime power capabilities in contemporary times. Indian maritime dominance strategies enable the country to advance into a regional power status and international top-ranking force by expanding its sea power capabilities. The Indian maritime strategy depends on security and inclusive regional growth to establish mutual advancement and interregional collaboration. The Indian naval forces developed monitoring capacity along with surveillance methods for maritime domain control according to their security needs.
Global and regional hegemony can only be achieved through greater control of the Oceans
The Exclusive Economic Zone together with other maritime interests drive the need to establish control for achieving defense objectives in India. India uses its financial resources to advance military power projects together with humanitarian aid and disaster response measures to construct regional security networks and expand its influence in the area. The strategic growth of India takes place through its participation in the Quad security dialogue along with United States, Japan and Australia to defend its plans and transform regional security relationships. The Indian policy places cooperation at the forefront by adopting regional naval alliances and organizations that support mutual interests. Through MALABAR naval drills along with alliance formation India has reached its highest level of modern maritime advancement.
Furthermore, India depends heavily on imported energy as well as crude oil imports which makes sea power vital for national security. Protecting crucial sea lanes represents the number one priority since economic breakdowns from ship-based threats including piracy and geopolitical turmoil and blockades would devastate India. India is enhancing both its conventional and nuclear naval forces which brings important changes to regional security conditions.
The ongoing US-China contestation and growing strategic importance of the Indo Pacific region have led to rethinking of regional security calculations. India’s increasing naval development has also been altering the power dynamics of the Indian Ocean Region in its favour resulting in military tensions with other states, specially with Pakistan. Also, it could pose as a challenge to Pakistan’s strategic interests in Gwadar port and China Pakistan Economic Corridor.
India’s growing maritime ambitions have significant implications for Pakistan, which has long harboured concerns about India’s military modernization and expansion. As such a realist perspective suggests that India’s growing naval power will increase pressure on Pakistan’s navy, which is already facing significant resource constraints. India’s ability to control and protect its maritime interests could potentially threaten Pakistan’s maritime trade which is crucial to its economy.
Enhanced dialogue & mutual cooperation is key to maintaining regional stability
Beyond bilateral tensions, India’s maritime strategy will also impact the indo-pacific region in a broader sense. The shift in regional balance of power could eventually challenge dominance of other regional powers/navies like China. Furthermore, India’s co-operation with international navies like United States, Japan and Australia provides new opportunities for these nations to advance their strategic interests.
However, despite these ambitions. challenges persist. India’s naval modernization efforts are often hampered by budgetary constraints that are constantly falling short of the navy’s growing requirements. Nevertheless, the modernization and expansion of naval capabilities remains a critical components of India’s broader strategic framework.
Oceans are thus increasingly critical to achieve global and regional hegemony. Through the lens of a realist approach, maritime power rivalries can be analysed extensively. India has been enjoying the support for achievement of its blue economy ambitions and for that they have signed numerous co-operative agreements. For Pakistan, these kinds of developments are a direct threat to Pakistan’s security. In reaction, Pakistan has signed mutual defence and economic pacts with multiple states. The aim of singing the pacts is to counter India’s growing maritime influence.
Additionally, the Non-traditional threats, such as piracy and environmental challenges, further complicates the security landscape, exacerbating existing tensions. To erase the risks of escalation and unintended consequences, risk reduction actions should be implemented to prevent both the escalation of tensions and unforeseen reactions from dangerous developments. Regional players should work towards maintaining stability through enhanced dialogue and cooperation.
Disclaimer: The opinions expressed in this article are solely those of the author. They do not represent the views, beliefs, or policies of the Stratheia.
