Indian naval development: power projection in the Indian Ocean?

Abstract

This thesis examines the U.S.-India relationship in the context of a world power interacting with the predominant regional power. The growing Indian military's power projection and nuclear weapons capability make the Indian Ocean region a critical area for American foreign policy during the next decade. New Delhi's desire to be a hegemonic power in the region combined with the U.S. military drawdown in reaction to the changing strategic environment could threaten long-term U.S. interests. The United States can no longer afford to remain relatively disinterested in the region and must develop a comprehensive policy to promote regional security and stability.