GS2 – International Relations
Context
Amid the US-Israel conflict, Iran switched from the U.S.-controlled GPS to China’s BeiDou navigation system, signaling deeper shifts in global technological power dynamics.
Reasons Behind Iran’s Shift
- Security Risks: U.S. system disruptions during the conflict exposed Iran’s vulnerability and over-reliance on Western tech.
- Surveillance Concerns: Iran suspects espionage via Western apps (e.g., WhatsApp) linked to attacks on nuclear scientists.
- Digital Sovereignty: BeiDou is seen as a secure and independent alternative, aligning with Iran’s push for tech self-reliance.
Broader Technological Trends
- Erosion of Western Tech Monopoly: Traditional dominance in operating systems, satellites, and platforms is facing serious challenges.
- Emerging Regional Alternatives:
- China – BeiDou
- Russia – GLONASS
- Europe – Galileo
- Tech Multipolarity: Initiatives like China’s Belt and Road are reshaping global digital infrastructure and alliances.
- Rise of Tech Blocs: Digital infrastructure choices now mirror political alignments, fuelling a new ‘tech cold war’.
Way Forward
- Global Digital Governance
- Build global norms around digital sovereignty, platform neutrality, and cross-border data rules.
- Strategic Tech Adaptation
- Countries must view digital infrastructure as core to national security, updating foreign policies accordingly.
- India’s Balanced Approach
- Accelerate development of indigenous systems like NavIC.
- Build diverse international tech partnerships to protect strategic autonomy.