Addressing the China Challenge

Context
India faces significant challenges in narrowing the defence capability gap with China while modernising its defence industrial base.

Issues at Hand

China’s Military Supremacy

• Extensive defence spending, advanced military modernisation, and a robust industrial base.
• Example: Commissioned 70 submarines between 1995 and 2020.

Regional Power Imbalance

• China’s military capabilities surpass those of its neighbouring countries combined.

Geopolitical Strategy

• The “Asia for Asians” slogan reflects China’s desire for regional dominance and to deter external powers.

People’s Liberation Army (PLA) Advantage

• The PLA’s quantitative superiority has weakened U.S. military dominance in East Asia.

US Involvement Limitations

• The U.S. faces challenges in focusing solely on countering China due to its dispersed resources across Europe, the Middle East, and Asia.

Challenges for India

Dependence on Imports

• Heavy reliance on foreign defence technology and limited domestic production capacity.

DRDO Reforms

• Slow execution of committee recommendations for restructuring the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO).

Limited International Cooperation

• Existing defence agreements with allies have a narrow scope.

Defence Modernisation Gap

• Insufficient reforms to bridge the technological and operational gap with China.

Weak Industrial Base

• Lack of skilled workforce and outdated facilities, reducing global competitiveness.

Strategic Opportunities for India

Geopolitical Partnerships

• Strengthening collaborations with countries like Japan, Australia, and Southeast Asian nations for regional security.
  • Example: Air-to-air refuelling agreement with Australia to enhance interoperability.
  • Example: Joint production of stealth technology with Japan for Indian naval vessels.

Defence Diplomacy

• Expanding military diplomacy to build stronger ties with like-minded nations.

US and France Bilateral Roadmaps

• Agreements aimed at developing robust defence supply chains and advancing technology cooperation.

Private Sector Engagement

• Promoting private sector involvement in defence manufacturing and exports.

Emerging Role in Global Defence Supply Chains

• Potential to become a significant player as global defence supply chains undergo realignment.

Expanding Arms Exports

• Opportunity to enhance India’s role as a defence exporter in the global market.

Modernisation Initiatives

• Utilising existing agreements to boost technological advancements and industrial capabilities.

Diversified Strategic Partnerships

• Strengthening ties with nations like Italy and South Korea to broaden defence collaboration.

Way Forward

1. Accelerate Defence Reforms
   • Expedite DRDO restructuring and boost indigenous production capabilities.
2. Invest in Innovation
   • Increase funding for defence research and development to reduce import dependency.
3. Develop Industrial Capacity
   • Focus on creating a skilled workforce and upgrading defence production infrastructure.
4. Expand Military Diplomacy
   • Deepen security cooperation with both Asian and Western allies.
5. Promote Private Sector Participation
   • Encourage private investments in defence manufacturing and exports.
6. Strengthen Regional Ties
   • Enhance interoperability and conduct joint military exercises with ASEAN nations.
7. Leverage US Collaboration
   • Partner with the United States to gain access to advanced defence technologies and improve production competitiveness.