• Source:JND

Amid the Hormuz crisis, the Indian Ocean is once again becoming a major centre of global strategic competition. The United States, China, India and France are reportedly increasing their focus on the region. The development is significant as no single country fully controls the Indian Ocean. Several major powers have a strong influence and military presence in the region. While it is governed by international law, India acts as the primary regional net security provider.

Is China Becoming More Vulnerable At Sea?

According to a report by London-based International Institute of Strategic Studies (IISS), China’s biggest maritime vulnerability may begin at the Strait of Hormuz rather than the Strait of Malacca, challenging the widely discussed “Malacca Dilemma”. As a large part of Beijing’s oil and energy imports pass through the Indian Ocean before reaching East Asia, China remains at risk caused by disruptions along maritime routes.

The report, titled Asia Pacific Regional Security Assessment, released ahead of the Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore, noted that the Indian Ocean Region is re-emerging as a key strategic theatre. The region, which has remained largely stable since the end of the Cold War, is regaining focus. The study further says that China’s dependence on energy routes passing through the Indian Ocean has made the region extremely important for Beijing’s security and economic interests.

As countries like India, France and the US have a major military presence and strategic partnerships in the region, China faces stronger competition. This limits its operational reach near Hormuz as compared to other powers in the region. Over the years, China has significantly expanded its navy and military cooperation with countries around the Indian Ocean to protect its interests.

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Does India Have Advantage?

The report also highlights India’s growing role as a major security player in the Indian Ocean. It says New Delhi considers the region its primary strategic sphere and has expanded naval exercises, defence partnerships and maritime cooperation with several countries in recent years. Along with France and the US, India has significant capability to monitor sea routes and secure important maritime chokepoints across the Indian Ocean.

While China may be gradually increasing its military presence in the region, reports indicate that Beijing is still unlikely to challenge the combined influence of India, France and the US in the near future.

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