Concept of Sea Basing and Its Effect on Indo-US Naval Relations: The Way Ahead
Abstract
The concept of sea basing and the continuing interest of the United States in the Indian Ocean is likely to result in increased U.S. Naval activity there. To avoid unpleasant incidents at sea that may adversely affect the relationship between India and the United States, the U.S. Navy and the Indian Navy must develop mutual trust and respect for each other. Sea bases are likely to include various types of ships, aircraft, and other platforms currently under development. The sea bases will be forward deployed in various regions of the world, giving the United States the capability to rapidly deploy its forces anywhere. Given the continuing interest of the United States in the Indian Ocean, this region is likely to be a location for a sea base. The expansion of the Indian Navy's power projection and the U.S. Navy's sea basing in the Indian Ocean may result in interference between the two navies due to the proximity of their operations. Since both India and United States are interested in developing a closer relationship with each other, positive interactions between their respective navies would be desired and expected. The current annual exercises between the two navies are one means of building mutual trust and respect and interoperability. Intelligence sharing, combined Sea-Lanes of Communication (SLOC) protection, and agreements for avoidance of Incidents at Sea are other steps the two nations can take to improving naval relations.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jan 01, 2004
- Accession Number
- ADA520272
Entities
People
- Amol M. Sabnis
Organizations
- Marine Corps University