Navies in Asia: A Survey of the Development of Ten Navies in South and South East Asia, 1945-1992
Abstract
This study analyzes the development of the navies of South and South East Asia from the end of the Second World War until 1992. Included within the history are the services of Pakistan, India, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Thailand, the Philippines, Malaysia, Singapore, Brunei, and Indonesia. The factors involved within the development of each navy over the last 47 years are treated, with particular emphasis on strategic, economic, and cultural considerations. The great majority of these navies have undergone considerable expansion in size and improvement in capability within the last 2 decades. This is partly the result of increases in budgets arising from rapid economic development within the region, but it also reflects increasing awareness amongst the countries concerned of the significance of the maritime sphere and of the complex strategic environment arising from the end of the Cold War and the rise of powers such as China, Japan, and India. All but the least developed countries in the region now possess surface-to-surface missiles, modern ocean-going combatants with organic helicopters, and a variety of other weapons and sensors. India, Pakistan, and Indonesia possess modern diesel-electric submarines, while India has experimented with a nuclear submarine. Still other countries are examining proposals to acquire submarine forces. Every nation is improving its maritime surveillance capabilities. The theme within the region is one of improved capabilities to meet ever more demanding requirements. The study analyzes these changes and suggests the likely direction that each service will take, as well as the associated implications for the local security situation.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Nov 01, 1992
- Accession Number
- ADA260572
Entities
People
- James Goldrick
Organizations
- Naval War College