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STRATFOR.com
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THE INTERNET SOURCE FOR GLOBAL INTELLIGENCE
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India Contests for Sea Lane Control, Builds Toward Nuclear Triad
February 5, 2002
Summary
India is working on a defense protocol with Russia, its traditional weapons supplier, and eyeing arms deals with the United States. The items on New Delhi's shopping list show that India is focusing on its naval capabilities and is serious about becoming a nuclear power. Ultimately, it will be China -- not Pakistan -- that must confront new naval challenges from India.
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Analysis
India is capitalizing on growing U.S. interest in South Asia's security environment to push for rapid expansion of its military capabilities. Reports from India suggest New Delhi is on the verge of signing major defense contracts with its traditional supplier, Russia, as well as with the United States.
However, India's acquisitions are not directed primarily at rival Pakistan, but rather at gaining control of sea lanes in the Indian Ocean and through the seas and straits of Southeast Asia. India's military buildup will threaten China, its main competitor for power in this region, especially as the purchases lay the groundwork for a strategic nuclear triad.
As always, New Delhi is looking first to Moscow to meet its armaments needs. Russian Foreign Minister Igor Ivanov arrived in New Delhi on Feb. 3 for talks with Indian Defense Minister George Fernandes. India and Russia are expected to sign a defense protocol next week that will pave the way for a series of new weapons purchases and leases.
(The Rest of the Story)
(c) 2001 Stratfor, Inc.
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India Contests for Sea Lane Control, Builds Toward Nuclear Triad . . .