The Beacon Journal is a peer-reviewed bi-annual research journal of the Pakistan Navy War College and is recognized in Y-Category by Higher Education Commission of Pakistan (HEC). It is a forum for independent research, scholarly investigation and analysis, encompassing national, regional and global issues with policy relevance. It primarily focuses on maritime security studies with a multi-disciplinary perspective. The fundamental objective of The Beacon Journal is to publish top-quality, policy-relevant research in an accessible manner.
Changing Dynamics of Deterrence in South Asia: Implications for Strategic Stability
Deterrence involves increasing the cost ofaggression for the adversary, such that retaliation surpasses the perceived benefits of aggression. The nuclearisation of Pakistan and India constricted the space of conventional war; however, India’s progressive enhancement in its nuclear force posture towards a counterforce targeting strategy undermines the credibility of Pakistan's nuclear deterrent forces. The introduction of offensive military doctrines and destabilising weapons systems seek to dominate escalation and destabilise deterrence equilibrium. This research paper aims to analyse how changing force postures and doctrinal positions define the dynamics of deterrence and then explore its correlation with strategic stability. To construct it, this study emphasises the episodic crisis that characterises the transitional dynamics ofdeterrence, viewed through the lens ofstrategic stability. The study is holistic in nature; it employs a process-tracing methodology to investigate India and Pakistan's nuclear doctrinal positions, which intrinsically elucidate the dynamics of deterrence in South Asia.
US Naval Power in the 21•' Century: A New Strategy for Facing the Chinese and Russian Threat
Brent D. Sadler offers a comprehensive analysis of the greater maritime competition unfolding globally, especially between the United States and revisionist powers such as China and Russia. The book's central theme centres on the idea that the US, China, and Russia will engage in the most significant maritime competition in the upcoming decades. The latter are rapidly bolstering their forces in maritime domains to counterbalance US influence over the global commons. The author argues that the Cold War legacy-rooted American naval policy fails to adequately address the challenges of the 21* century. Serving as the latest policy prescription for American policymakers, this book outlines how the US can effectively tackle the naval challenges posed by China and Russia while remaining in peaceful competition. The book covers a wide array of topics expounded upon in detail by the author.
US-India Security Partnership: An Analysis of Grand Strategy of Trump and Biden
Grand strategy is a basie strateglc view and a detailed plan for a shared set of ideas among policymakers. Policy makers formalate a set of guiding principles to achieve a specific goul.In a comparative manner, this stady examines the contours of US grand strategy,with particular emphasis on the security policy towards India during the governments of President Donald Trump and President Joe Biden. Both governments have consistently prioritized great power competition as a strategic objective within their respective grand strategies. China is a superpower with which the United States is competing; therefore,the grand strategy of the United States in terms of the national imterest of coustering China during the aforementioned eras steps up the security engagement with India despite having some fault lines in it. This study provides an explanation of how the US grand strategy:specifically its offshore balancing approach, heightened secarity engagement with India under both neocomservative and liberaf imperialist regimes. The stdy's findings indicate that neoconservatives hove generally supported a strong Dadia to counter China. Becanse they prioritize promoting democracy and American values globally, they see India as a potential strategle partuer. While liberal imperialist regimes in the Uneited States may be wary of India's human rights records, they also see India as a large democracy and a potential economic parter.
US Security Policy,Grand Strategy. India,Major Defence Partner,President Donald Tramp, President Joe Biden, Indo-Pacific.
Unravelling Ambiguities: The Quest for Credible Minimum Deterrence in South Asia
Since 1998, Credible Minimum Deterrence (CMD) has remained India's and Pakistan's doctrinal posture. At face value, a credible minimum means less nuclear force to ensure stable deterrence. However, the term is not as simple as it seems because there is no agreed- upon explanation of how much can be quantified as minimum and credible. The Asian nuclear triangle (India, Pakistan, and China) adds another layer ofambiguity to the concept of CMD in South Asia. Because India's minimum credible nuclear force may not be credible against conventionally advantageous China. Similarly, the conventional asymmetry between India and Pakistan presses the latter to rely on nuclear weapons to deter the full spectrum of threats (nuclear, conventional, and sub-conventional) from India. India’s qualitative build-up, like the employment ofBallistic Missile Defence (BMD), its strategic partnership with the USA, and its doctrinal postulations, have direct implications for the stated policy of Pakistan. This research basically addresses the question: Are India and Pakistan abiding by the CMD policy? How can both sides ensure the practicability of the CMD in South Asia? The study is descriptive and analytical in nature. For this purpose, secondary sources like journal articles, books, newspaper articles, and accessible official websites and documents are utilized. The article concludes that what is considered a credible minimum today may not be credible tomorrow. Thus, the arms race will continue to be a constant feature of the South Asian nuclear environment. To abide by the CMD, India, and Pakistan need to be engaged in serious nuclear dialogue and focus on credible measures (beyond risk reduction) like the mechanism ofsome arms control regime.
India, Pakistan, Credible Minimum Deterrence, Full Spectrum Deterrence, Arms Control Regime.
China-Solomon Islands Security Pact: Implications in Maritime Domain
In April 2022, China and the Solomon Islands concluded a security pact to cement the political foundation of their relations by primarily supporting each other's sovereignty, integrity, maritime protection, and development of the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). The security pact has impacted not only China and the Solomon Islands, but also the US dominance of Oceania in particular and the Indo-Pacific in general. The security pact will not only allow Beijing to strengthen itselfin the Indo-Pacific Oceans against the diminishing infiuence of the US, but it will also allow Beijing to strengthen its position in the Atlantic Ocean to further trap the already-trapped US. Following the US Island Chain Strategy, under which the US established three island chains in the Pacific Ocean to check the Chinese and Russian expansion after World War II, China now has the capability and capacity to establish a 4500 km-long island chain in the Atlantic Ocean from the Azores to Trinidad, which will assist it in creating a global balance for economic and social development through blue diplomacy.
China, Solomon Islands, Security Pact, Island Chains and Atlantic Ocean.
Counter Insurgency and Regional Security: An Assessment of Multinational Joint Task Force Operation in Lake Chad Region
Insurgent groups in the Lake Chad Region have exacerbated the safety and insecurity crisis, resulting in an unimaginable number of deaths, property destruction, and damage to other social infrastructure within the countries. The networks of these terrorist groups in Lake Chad Basin Commission member countries (LCBC), including Cameroon, Chad, Nigeria, andNiger, have continued to undermine several military efforts to contain these activities. In order to mitigate this challenge, LCBC reactivated the Multinational Joint Task Force Operations (MNJTF) in 2015. This paper analyses the MNJTF Counter-Insurgency (COIN) efforts in the LCR for enhanced regional security. The analyses suggest that COIN operations by the MNJTF in the Lake Chad Region have recorded tremendous successes. However, some challenges are militating against MNJTF efforts. These included an incomprehensible legal framework for operations, the absence ofa well-defined command and control structure, weak institutional capacity, difficult terrain, and adverse weather conditions. The paper suggests strategies to mitigate the challenges. This includes a review of the legal framework, the establishment of a HQ Joint Operation Coordination Centre, the formulation of a Joint Operation Doctrine, and the establishment of a joint COIN training school. The study concluded by suggesting several strategies to address the challenges, such as the African Union seeking financial, training, and equipment support from international communities and development partners for COIN operations.
Chad Region, Regional Security, MNTJF, Counter Insurgency, Operation.
The Geopolitical Chessboard: The Budapest Memorandum and Russia-Ukraine Relations
The US, UK, and Russian Federation, who met on December 5, 1994, in Budapest, Hungary, provided security assurances in conjunction with Ukraine's admission to the Nuclear Non- Proliferation Treaty (NPT) as a non-nuclear-weapons state. After long discussions, the parties signed the Budapest Memorandum, which declared that Ukraine would give over all nuclear weapons to Russia for destruction and hand over its third-biggest nuclear weapons, which it had inherited from the fall of the Soviet Union. The parties to the agreement pledged to refrain from using or threatening to use force against Ukraine, as well as to respect the country's borders and territorial integrity. Russia violated these commitments in 2014 when it annexed Crimea. This study delves into the complex structure of geopolitical events, with a focus on the memorandum's involvement in the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war, as well as how geopolitical strategies and interests interact with the Budapest Memorandum in the context of the Russia- Ukraine confiict. Tensions between the two countries increased, bringing together power confiicts, cultural ties, and historical relationships to produce the present situation. This study critically evaluates the initial promises of the Budapest Memorandum, its subsequent infiuence on Ukraine's security policies, and its relevance to contemporary challenges. This study also explores how the Budapest Memorandum infiuenced the strategic narratives of both sides and how other global powers and organizations played a role in mediating or exacerbating the confiict. This study examines primary and secondary sources using qualitative research methodology. This study examines the Russia-Ukraine confiict through realism and Halford Mackinder’s Heartland theory.
Russia, Ukraine, Budapest Memorandum, Nuclear Weapons, NPT, NATO
Indian Maritime Security Strategy for Indian Ocean Region: Implications for China and Pakistan
The Indian Ocean Region (IOR) creates a triangle of opposition, competition and confiict between India, China, and the US. India’s naval modernization and ever-expanding infiuence in IOR has challenged the naval balance with clear regional implications especially for China and Pakistan. This competition is rejected in the establishment of naval bases, investments in infrastructure, and the formation ofstrategic partnerships. India, as a rising regional power, is actively engaged in securing its maritime trade routes, ensuring energy security, and countering challenges such as balancing China's presence in the region. India's dependence on the resources and trade routes in the IOR shape its strategic calculus. India's naval expansion encircling China, coupled with its strengthening ties with the US, further complicates the geopolitical balance in the region. There is also a growing maritime competition between India and Pakistan, as both countries seek to assert their infiuence and secure their maritime interests. This competition adds an additional layer of complexity to the overall security and stability ofthe region. Through the theoretical lens ofMahan's Maritime perspective, this paper dissects the nature and dynamics of India’s IOR strategy and explains that India’s naval modernization and its expansion of presence/infiuence in the region along with its multilateral initiatives like SAGAR and especially bilateral strategic partnership with US have created a security-insecurity dilemma in the region with a possibility of enhanced multi-pronged competition with the regional and extra regional powers with clear implications for China and Pakistan.
Indian Ocean Region, India’s Maritime Security Strategy, India’s Naval Modernization, US-India Strategic Partnership, Sino-India Maritime Competition
Maritime Doctrine of Pakistan (MDP):Preserving Freedom of Seas
The first edition of Maritime Doctrine of Pakistan (MDP), sub titled, Preserving Freedom of Seas, was published by Pakistan Navy (Naval Headquarters, Islamabad) in December 2018. The manuscript of MDP was carefully constructed at Pakistan Navy War College, Lahore under the aegis of Naval Headquarters, Islamabad. This was done over a period of some six years in which around eleven (11) comprehensive drafts of the document were prepared and examined before being given the final shape. The development of the Doctrine involved wide ranging internal discussions (both, within the service as well as with other sister services) over and above examination of a variety of national and international peer documents.
Maritime Security and Geopolitics in Indian Ocean Region (IOR): Evolution of India’s Maritime Strategy – Implications for Pakistan
The security matrix of Indian Ocean is in a flux. With the pronouncement of US backed Indo-Pacific enterprise, and the advent of the ‘Asian Century,’ the maritime renaissance is already underway which has rejuvenated the essence of India’s maritime strategic vision. Indian Ocean is at the centre of India's strategic priorities in its pursuit of reclaiming preponderance and giving an impetus to its blue economy. India’s national prestige for the dominance on land and sea, entwined with geo- economic needs and geostrategic threats perceived, determine its geopolitical imperatives. India’s maritime adventurism, as envisaged in its maritime strategic vision, embodied in maritime doctrines, exhibited in assertive Indian Navy’s posture, and enshrined in military modernization, articulates the agenda for securing SLOCs and deterring nuclear neighbors. Pakistan reciprocally perceives similar security threats from India at its eastern borders and in western waters. India’s maritime strategy, in its holistic version, potentially threatens CPEC and Pakistan’s economic and strategic interests in Indian Ocean. Within the thematic lines of Regional Security Complex Theory, this study highlights how mutual security threats shape naval postures of competing states. Moreover, ‘sea power’ as the conceptual narration of maritime security will help assess how Indian maritime strategy has evolved through recent decades and how it has shaped Pakistan’s policy actions and responses.
Pakistan, Indian Ocean, Indo-Pacific, CPEC, Maritime Security, India’s Maritime Doctrine
China – ASEAN Relations in the 21st Century: Opportunities and Challenges
Over the last few decades, there has been considerable progress in the development of relations between China and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). There are many factors that have contributed to the closer relationship between ASEAN and China; one of which is the change in China's foreign policy. However, China and ASEAN must also be prepared for challenges that may impact their relationship. For instance, the possible impact of the South China Sea dispute (SCS), transnational criminal activities, social and economic inequalities and climate change are issues of concern. Several analysts anticipate that a confrontation over the unresolved SCS issue could start in the near future. Especially, considering that in recent years, there has been frequent tensions not only involving China and some ASEAN countries, but also with the United States. On July 13 of this year, China and ASEAN came to an agreement on new principles to speed up negotiations for a legally enforceable code of conduct (COC) on the SCS, despite the discontent around the on-going issue in the region. Therefore, this study examines the problems and opportunities that China and the ASEAN nations may face in the 21st century. One thing that needs to be underlined is that there is a strong desire from China and ASEAN to continue to cooperate to achieve mutual prosperity and maintain stability and peace in the region, as written by both parties in the agreements they have signed.
China-ASEAN Relations, Cold War Era, China’s Foreign Policy, Economy Integration, South China Sea
Sea Power in the Age of Artificial Intelligence (AI): China’s Naval Modernization as a Pacing Threat for The United States
In the intricate landscape of global politics, sea power serves as a defining factor in a nation’s path towards leadership. This research navigates historical trajectory, highlighting the United States’ epochal reign as a maritime powerhouse, underpinned by its resounding naval supremacy. However, a shift in tides becomes evident with the rise of China’s navy, an emerging force that poses a substantial challenge to the established superpower-the US. Beyond traditional paradigms, this study ventures into the realm of technological transformation. It explores the role of artificial intelligence as a compass, guiding naval forces towards enhanced strategic command and operational efficiency. As the digital winds of change gather momentum, the incorporation of AI charts a new course in shaping and sustaining naval dominance. This research employs qualitative research method to provide analysis. Lastly, the paper provides an analysis in terms of AI based maritime competition and assess that China has attained bigger naval fleet with naval modernization over past few decades, but still, US outpaced and outplayed bigger Chinese fleet with more technologically advanced and powerful naval vessels and platforms.
PLAN, Sea Power, Naval Modernization, Artificial Intelligence, USV, UUV
Pre-Emptive Peace and Security Approach in Africa-China Security Cooperation
Africa is a continent that is perturbed by a series of endemic conflicts and insecurity. This precarious situation in Africa has captured the attention of not only Africa’s traditional partners in the West but also the attention of emerging economies with China taking the lead. The People’s Republic of China has geo-strategically begun to play a prominent role in the political and economic spheres of many African countries including the domain of security. Africa’s security challenges are believed to have defiled extant solutions. This has led to the opinion that existing security and conflict approaches, theories and multilateral intervention programs in Africa have not given solace to Africa’s perilous situations for two reasons. First, because most of these approaches, theories and security architecture were designed for resolving inter-state disputes. Second, with the emergence of new security challenges, the UN and other regional organisations remain woefully ill-equipped to address many of the 21st century challenges to international peace and security. However, this has called for alternative approaches and ways to prevent and resolve Africa’s insecurity. It is in that vein that this article pivots its argument on the fact that the solution to Africa’s security challenges does not lie only in liberal western approaches and theories, but in other alternatives such as the pre-emptive peace and security approach. The pre-emptive peace and security approach revolves around the anticipation of factors that could cause conflict and insecurity and putting in place necessary mechanisms that could forestall and resolve these conflicts even before the early warning signs show up and prevent them from escalation when they arise. In many ways, this alternative approach prioritises socio-economic means and human development as the rationale for answers and solutions to many of Africa’s insecurity problems.
Africa, China, Conflicts, Pre-emptive Peace, Security, Conflict Resolution
Law Enforcement within Maritime Zones of Pakistan: Impediments, Opportunities and Way Forward
Oceans are prime geographical entities holding massive volumes of activities including transport of food and nutrition, trade and commerce, communication, and exploration and exploitation of natural resources. There is enormous reliance of states on all these maritime activities. Pakistan, being a significant coastal state of the Indian Ocean Region (IOR) has vast areas as its maritime zones including continental shelf. It is Pakistan’s responsibility to ensure law enforcement in order to promote safe navigation and other economic activities. The identification of variables underpinning maritime security in these zones of Pakistan and discussing the gaps in law enforcement as a steady challenge provide this research relevance with the cotemporary era requirements and implementation challenges. This research has been substantiated with the conceptual framework established on the ground of Hobbesian Social Contract Theory and the Agency-Structure approach. Therefore, this research is conferring upon existing maritime laws with the purpose to deal with the gaps and to find solutions to challenges in maritime zones of Pakistan by including social factions to ensure inclusiveness and enhanced efficacy. The research undertaken is qualitative and explanatory, directed at suggestions for better policy making and implementation. The data for the research has been collected through primary, secondary and tertiary sources, in which primary data utilized for this study is based on official, open- source documents, and discussions with practitioners and stakeholders. Secondary data has been collected from academic books, research papers, reports, and newspapers, and tertiary data used for the work undertaken relies on electronic sources.
Maritime Law Enforcement, Indian Ocean Region, Law Enforcement Agencies (LEAs), Social Contract, Agency-Structure
Contemporary US-China Relations and Climate Change: Impacts on National Security and International Relations
Global climate change presents a complex and multi-dimensional challenge, ranking among the most significant global public concerns. Climate change has wide-ranging consequences that affect international security, politics, and economic trade relations. The unequal distribution of greenhouse gas emissions generated by humans across borders means that all nations share responsibility to address this issue. As a result, the impact of climate change and its securitization has significant implications for international relations. Climate change encounters the traditional view of human societies, usually interconnected with the global political system. The impact of climate change, like resource scarcity, rising sea levels, displacement of populations, and extreme weather, can lead to conflict over limited resources, which affects security dynamics and diplomatic relations. Notably, China and the United States, having different perspectives on the challenges of climate change, are the world’s largest greenhouse gas emitters and play a pivotal role in this landscape. While historical cooperation on climate change between these two nations exists, its depth and substance remain limited. Given climate change’s irreversible and worldwide implications, the political sway of climate-related matters is continually escalating. An in-depth analysis is required to address the situation. For the said purpose, a qualitative descriptive method is adopted. This paper offers an in-depth investigation and reflective exploration of the influence of climate change on international relations, mainly focusing on China and the United States. This study addresses the economic, political, and global security perspectives and presents a forward-looking assessment of potential future scenarios.
Climate Change, International Relations, National Security, Cooperation and Conflict.
Anatomization of Pakistan’s National Security Policy 2022-2026: Strategic Hitches and Way Forward for Peace and Security in Pakistan
This paper analyses Pakistan’s National Security Policy 2022-2026. The state of Pakistan has officially presented its first National Security Policy in 2022. The policy crystallizes all multi-dimensional policy domains into a national security framework and it serves as this paper’s pivotal analysis point. The paper analyses the policy by asking the following questions: What are the limitations and fault lines in the policy framework, where are the gaps and apertures, and what are the possible way-outs? The paper employs a classical 5-step analytical frameworkof policyanalysis. Theanalysis suggestsconceptual and practical, foreign policy recommendations. National security framework side tracks the guns vs. butter and geopolitics vs. geo-economics by terming it as a stagnant logic leading to a contradictory logic. The paper reveals that such an attempt translates into inconsistencies in the conceptual and practical domains and results in foreign policy stalemates. The findings suggest that shifting focus from economic to politico-economic security, greater distribution to equitable distributary mechanism, putting human security at its core as a peace dividend with traditional and politico-economic securities gearing to it, and adopting an environmental peace-building and inclusive regional approach could mend the policy lacunas
Pakistan, Human Security, Mahbub-ul-Haq, Development Policy Analysis, Peace Dividend
The Resurgence of Islamic State Khorasan (IS-K) in Afghanistan and the Taliban's Regime Survival Dilemma
This article explores why the Taliban remain unwilling to moderate and establish an inclusive democratic government in Afghanistan. It also explores why the Taliban are hesitant to sever relations with or undertake counterterrorist operations against Islamist jihadist groups such as the TTP and Al-Qaeda. It argues that the Taliban's rivalry with IS- K is the major factor preventing the Taliban from moderating and establishing an all- inclusive democratic government in Afghanistan and severing relations with other Islamist jihadist groups. The Taliban are concerned that if they embrace moderation, the hardline factions and fighters from the group may leave the Taliban and join the IS-K, which poses an existential threat to the IEA 2.0. Similarly, acting against various jihadist groups in Afghanistan may compromise the Taliban's authentic and pious image in the Islamic community and the jihadist world, potentially turning these groups against the Taliban and leading to the collapse of IEA 2.0. This paper employs qualitative research methods involving interpretive content analysis. Due to the topic’s evolving nature, it primarily relies on a diverse range of data, including national and international newspaper stories, public speeches and media statements from the Taliban leaders, journal articles, blogs, and social media content.
Taliban, IS-K, TTP, Al-Qaeda, Counterterrorism dilemma, Regime Survival Dilemma.
US-China and a New Taiwan Crisis: Deciphering Dimensions of Power Politics in the Pacific Ocean
Applying the Regional Security Complex as a yardstick for state’s power projection, this research identifies complexities and actor preferences in the new and escalatory dimension to the US-China competition in the Taiwan Strait. China’s insistence that Taiwan's position as an extension of sovereign territory of its mainland is further complicated by introduction of American assistance offered to Taiwan. Even though the US still recognizes the One China Policy, newly legislated assistance programs indicate a deviation from this stance by American strategists and political stakeholders. Beyond the Taiwan Relations Act, 1979 the US has recently introduced the Taiwan Enhanced Resilience Act within its Taiwan Policy Act, 2022 that offers comprehensive and direct military assistance to Taipei. This research develops an assessment paradigm on these policies adopted by the US and a possible retaliatory response from Beijing in calibrating how future of this crisis will manifest. This research also theorizes that by opting for a dual policy parameter, the US not only complicates the issue but also promotes an escalatory trend in the region which brings both the US and China closer to a direct confrontation since the Korean War. The research concludes that by opting for risk-intensive and escalation-oriented strategies, the Taiwan Crisis not only becomes a flashpoint for an intense friction among US and China but also encourages a domino effect of insecurity and realignment in the region.
Taiwan Relations Act, 1979, Taiwan Enhanced Relations Act, One-China Policy, Crisis Escalation, Regional Infiuence.
Book Review: Human Security in Pakistan (2003) - Hafiz A. Pasha, Friedrich Ebert Stiftung
Human Security in Pakistan is a comprehensive writing that quantifies human security and establishes an index for the evaluation and measurement of human security in Pakistan. It includes 87 indicators that set the pace for rigorous evaluation beyond the scope of the human development index. The subject matter of this study is very significant in the current context of Pakistan's security challenges. The debate on security has rapidly moved from traditional security to non-traditional security. The differentiation between traditional and non-traditional security has been differently presented by different scholars but the gist of this difference lies in the fact that security is no longer about state security focusing on securing borders through military means. Non-traditional security, rather, focuses on the different and multiple dimensions other than the military sector.
Tiger and the Dragon: India and China's Maritime Competition in the Indian Ocean Region
The Indian Ocean holds immense strategic importance for China and India. The Indo- Pacific region has become an intense maritime battleground for regional and external powers, especially the Indian Ocean Region (IOR). The IOR is a vital strategic and economic arena for military, diplomatic and regional involvement of India and China. By using qualitative research methods, this article explores the significance of ’maritime communication.’ How does China's “String of Pearls” approach aim to secure its maritime and geopolitical position in the IOR? and in response, how is India’s “Necklace of Diamonds” strategy designed to counter-balance and mitigate Chinese influence in the region? Building on the assumptions of Raoul Castex, a French naval admiral,- this article employs explanatory research that provides insights into China and India’s maritime interests in IOR through the ’string of pearls’ and ’Necklace of diamonds' approach. The research examines that India and China are adopting a highly defensive posture in controlling maritime international connections and ensuring the economic as well as national security of their respective countries as mentioned in the writings of Raoul Castex.
Belt and Road Initiative, Indian Ocean, Indian Navy, Maritime Communication, String of Pearls, Necklace of Diamond
Global Technological Competition in Warfare: Impact on Global Security in the 21st Century
The impact of technological advancements on global security from the perspective of classical realism is analysed in this article. The article explores how advanced and powerful nations like China, the US, and Russia are using advanced technologies to reshape strategic competition and power dynamics. The rapid evolution of digital infrastructure, robotics, and Artificial Intelligence (AI) is changing established security paradigms but is also creating new threats and opportunities. By examining these changes, the paper emphasises the strategic importance of technological superiority in projecting influence and bolstering national security. The incorporation of these advanced technologies into military strategies signals a shift from traditional warfare tactics to a more complex security environment where both physical and digital threats coexist. As technology advances, the line between traditional and emerging threats is becoming increasingly ambiguous, leading to the need for a reassessment of global security regulations and strategies. The intersection of classical realism theory and these advanced technologies is set to have a significant impact on the future dynamics of global security.
Technological Advancements, Strategic Competition, Global Security, Artificial Intelligence, Defence Modernisation.
Power Competition in The Arctic Region: A Comparative Analysis
As a result of climate change, the polar ice at the North Pole is rapidly vanishing, which has far-reaching consequences for the strategic terrain of the region. Russia, China, and the United States (US) have elevated their efforts in response to the prospects of economic expansion and escalating security rivalries. Exploring the strategic interests and opportunities of these three Arctic nations, this research paper employs a qualitative methodology to investigate the shifting geopolitics of the region using a structural realist framework. The research illuminates the geo -political and strategic ramifications of geo -economics in the region, as well as the inter-state rivalries among these nations that have precipitated increasing apprehensions and policy changes. The paper illustrates how Russia adopts a realist stance, China adopts a developmental stance to expand its influence, and the US strives to increase its power in the region to counterbalance the influence of China and Russia. Furthermore, the paper elucidates the correlation between the offensive-defensive balance and security dilemma stemming from the neo-realistic conduct of these states and the interplay of regional interests.
Arctic Geography, Strategic Interests, Security Dilemma, Strategic Convergence, New Shipping Routes, Potential War Zone
India's Pursuit of Emerging Military Technologies: Implications for Regional Security
Emerging military technologies have become central to state’s strategic endeavours and contribute significantly to achieving military-cum-political objectives. The strategic competition for these advanced military technologies has not remained restricted to major powers nay, has created a spill over effect in South Asia. In this backdrop, this paper aims at discussing India's quest to integrate emerging military technologies into its force structure and its emphasis on key areas. Moreover, it will analyse impact of these technologies on force posture of India, notably with respect to Pakistan. The research is significant as it underlies ramifications of India’s relentless quest for emerging military technologies on regional security. The theoretical framework employed is Regional Security Complex Theory (RSCT) by Barry Buzan and Ole Waever. The methodology used is qualitative whereas the type of research is exploratory in nature. This research concludes that India’s quest and merger of emerging military technologies in its force structure will disturb the conventional and nuclear military balance in South Asian region and therefore is horrendously detrimental to regional security.
Emerging Military Technologies, India, Pakistan, Regional Security Complex Theory (RSCT), Regional Security
Trade Agreements and Trojan Horses: Economy as a Tool of Hybrid Warfare against Pakistan
In an era where traditional and non-traditional threats intersect, foreign economic engagements, economic dependencies and misleading trade agreements have emerged as modern-day Trojan Horses - instruments for exerting influence and hybrid warfare. This paper posits that such economic tools are being strategically used to undermine Pakistan's sovereignty by exploiting its economic vulnerabilities. Pakistan's long -standing engagement with Multinational Corporations (MNCs) and International Financial Institutions (IFIs) has created an intricate web of dependencies over the past seven decades. This research, grounded in a deductive mixed methodology, explores how these dependencies have exposed Pakistan to external pressures, transforming economic relationships into conduits of Hybrid Warfare. It undercovers Pakistan's economic strengths and weaknesses while highlighting the role of foreign aid, loans, and remittances as mechanisms of external control. The hypothesis illustrates that trade agreements and financial dependencies serve as Trojan horses, allowing great powers to subtly exert influence over Pakistan. Theoretical assumptions are drawn from Hybrid Warfare framework, asserting that without a robust domestic economic resilience strategy, Pakistan will remain susceptible to these pressures. It offers critical policy recommendations aimed at preserving Pakistan's sovereignty by strengthening internal economic structures and contributes valuable insights into the evolving role of economy as a tool of Hybrid Warfare on the global stage.
Hybrid Warfare, Trade Agreements, Economic Warfare, IFIs, MNCs.
Applicability of Centre of Gravity ‘Concept’ in Modern Warfare
This research critically evaluates the present relevance and application of the Centre of Gravity (COG) concept as originally conceived by Clausewitz, and later developed by contemporary theorists, within the realm of modern military operations amid the evolving character of war. It offers a comprehensive exploration of the COG’s evolution, comparing its traditional interpretation against the backdrop of contemporary and emergent conflict scenarios. The study points out the intricate challenges and operational considerations in identifying and exploiting COGs, especially in the context of hybrid, grey-zone, and non- contact warfare. The research highlights the difficulty of applying a traditionally linear COG concept to the multifaceted and interconnected nature of modern conflicts. The paper advocates for a refined, systems -oriented approach to COG, underscoring its pivotal role in operational planning and decision-making. The findings propose a refined conceptual framework, emphasizing the imperative for military strategists to integrate a more dynamic, holistic perspective in navigating the complexities of modern warfare. The research aims to contribute to the ongoing discourse on the COG’s utility, offering a perspective to the reader that aligns with the evolving character of global conflicts.
Centre of Gravity (COG), Modern Warfare, Clausewitz, Character of War, Systemic Theory.
Russia-Ukraine War in Black Sea: Analysing the Employment of Unmanned Combat Systems by Ukraine
The article examines the strategic dynamics of the Russia-Ukraine conflict in the Black Sea, focusing on the transforming conduct of naval warfare. The employment of unmanned combat systems by Ukraine in Black Sea represents a strategic innovation that could redefine future naval warfare. This conflict serves as a crucial case study in how smaller nations can utilise technology to counterbalance larger powers in the maritime domain. To better understand the conventional disparity between Russian Black Sea Fleet (BSF) and Ukrainian Navy, the article provides a pre -war comparative analysis of naval vessels operated by both forces. Later it gives brief overview of objectives which Moscow wanted to achieve in Black Sea in the opening days of conflict. Later the article provides a periodic recap of major incidents that have taken place in the Black Sea conflict till August 2024. The overview highlights approximately all major naval losses suffered by both naval forces. Particularly, attrition losses suffered by Black Sea Fleet against Ukrainian unmanned combat aerial vehicles (UCAV) like TB-02 and kamikaze unmanned surface vehicles (USVs) have been accounted. The article underscores the employment tactics of unmanned assets by Ukraine and how Russia has failed to effectively counter such threats despite conventional superiority in traditional sense. Furthermore, it explores how such systems will evolve in future conflicts and will reshape the conduct of future naval warfare.
Black Sea Fleet, Ukrainian Navy, Unmanned Combat Aerial Vehicles (UCAVs), TB-02, Kamikaze Unmanned Surface Vehicles (USVs).
Qatar's Climate Governance Policies and Energy Transition: Practices and Implications
Qatar as part of the Middle East is characterized by tropical desert conditions; including high temperature, severe drought, low rainfall, limited water resources, and significant land degradation. This region, with the world's largest oil reserves, has faced resource disputes and environmental degradation due to large-scale industrialisation and oil exploitation for economic development. This study examines the effectiveness of the Qatari government 3strategies for sustainable development to reduce the effects of climate change. The case study method was used to measure the challenges and outcomes of Qatar's climate governance objectives through the emission reduction contribution of the AI Kharsaah renewable energy station and the scheduled achievements of Qatar'& National Strategy 2030 targets. Although there is practice in building up renewable energy stations. Carbon emissions suggest that a significant gap remains between promise and practice. Therefore, it is imperative for Qatar to continuously adapt its national strategy for sustainable development, promoting energy transformation and gradually transitioning its economic model away from fossil fuel exports through bilateral co-operation. Additionally, accelerating the implementation of carbon capture and Storage (CCS) technologies, alongside improving the efficiency of fugitive CO2 recovery, will be crucial in addressing these changes.
Climate Change,Energy Cousumption,Sustainable Development,National Strategy Qatar
Book Review: Russia and Ukraine: A Journey Through the History, Origins, and Causes of the War hat is Shaking the World and Impact It Could Have on Our Lives by Darell Norton
The book 'Russia and Ukraine: A Journey Through the History, Origins, and Causes of the War hat is Shaking the World and Impact It Could Have on Our Lives' serves as a basic guideline for anyone who wants in-depth answers to the Russia-Ukrain conflict and why it began. The book is written by Darell Norton, engages the audience by starting from the historical context of the conflict to various insecurities bot nations have. A historical roadmap citing the origins of each country and their relationship that culminated in this conflict based on Western influence and national interests. The book has six major sections, each of which is divided into historical origins and then the specific aspects of the conflict that are essential to understand the root cause of the war.
Russia, Ukraine, Conflict, history, causes, impact
Book Review: The War for the Seas: A Maritime History of World War II
'The War for the Seas: A Maritime History of World War II' is written by Professor Evan Mawdsley on the events and happenings of WWII, with its major focus on the maritime domain. The book describes the importance and critical role of maritime power played during the global war. As the writer had been a military history student and teacher throughout his life, with his expertise in Soviet Military history, this book clearly demonstrates a comprehensive analysis of naval warfare.
Maritime History, WWII, Maritime Warfare
Confidence-Building Measures in the Post-Nuclearisation Era of South Asia
The research discusses the role of Confidence-Building Measures (CBMs) in managing Pakistan-India rivalry and their complex relationships. Since India and Pakistan emerged as independent countries after the partition of the subcontinent in 1947, the unresolved disputes—mainly Jammu and Kashmir—have severely affected bilateral relations between the two nations. Over more than seven decades, the enduring hostility between Pakistan and India worsened due to the major wars fought between the two neighbouring countries, which have created lasting effects on relations between the two countries and the overall security dynamics of the region. Since achieving nuclear status, both India and Pakistan have found the management of their rivalry to be even more important. As an important series of tools, CBMs serve to reduce strains between countries through improved dialogue and trusted relations. The research examines CBMs during the post-nuclearisation period by analysing current problems, which prevent successful India-Pakistan communication and collaboration. The paper introduces an analytical framework designed to increase the current CBM role while exploring new possibilities for positive diplomatic interactions. This research focuses on the diplomatic approaches and collaborative mechanisms to develop policy guidance for establishing an all-inclusive CBM system. Strategic actions will be instrumental in building trust between Pakistan and India, which together will create enduring peace in the region marked by historic tensions and complicated geopolitical dynamics. Findings of the study show that the post-nuclear period of Pakistan-India relations demands collaboration to address the evolving nature of threats.
Pakistan, India, South Asia, Nuclear, CBMs