Indian, Japanese, and U.S. responses to Chinese submarine modernization

Abstract

Nations in the Asia-Pacific region are modernizing their naval fleets, and many are choosing to use submarines as the centerpiece of these plans. China, one of the most influential nations in the region, has upgraded its submarine force, and it is important to analyze the impact this modernization effort will have on the stability of the region. India, Japan, and the United States are closely watching the People’s Liberation Army Navy’s (PLAN’s) submarine force to understand better China’s intentions writ large, and the implications they have for security. All three nations have reacted in response to the PLAN’s modernization goal. This thesis concludes that the most effective policy going forward would be a balanced combination of both hard and soft hedging (including dialogue with the PLAN) to defend allied security interests but also to provide avenues for promoting future regional stability.