India is rapidly solidifying its position as a global strategic heavyweight, with its influence extending far beyond traditional battlegrounds. Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan recently articulated India’s expanding role in the Indo-Pacific, emphasizing how modern conflict now encompasses space, cyberspace, and even the cognitive domain. Speaking at the 9th Military Literature Festival 2025, Gen Chauhan highlighted India’s unique geographical advantage, allowing it to act as both a continental and maritime power. This dual capability positions India as a primary responder and a sought-after partner for numerous nations. He underscored the profound impact of geography on national strategy, referencing insights that a nation’s location dictates its power projection and strategic options. Reflecting on historical geopolitical shifts, Gen Chauhan noted that post-independence challenges initially fostered a continental outlook for India. However, its inherent geography clearly defines it as both a continental and maritime force. The evolution of global power struggles, he observed, has moved from controlling continents and seas to dominating space, cyberspace, and the cognitive realm. He illustrated the significance of key maritime choke points, like Djibouti at the Bab el Mandeb and Singapore at the Strait of Malacca, emphasizing their critical role in global trade. Indonesia’s vital maritime corridors, including the Malacca, Sunda, Lombok, and Ombai-Wetar straits, were also pointed out as essential for connecting the Pacific and Indian Oceans and facilitating international commerce. Gen Chauhan’s address clearly demonstrated that India’s multifaceted strengths are crucial for its leadership in the multi-domain warfare landscape of the Indo-Pacific and the Indian Ocean.
