The Sino-Indian Border: Is Conflict Inevitable?
Abstract
China and India share a complex security relationship. In recent years, the unresolved border issues that led to the Sino-Indian war of 1962 have reemerged as a major source of tension. Add to this is the growth of military power and lack of trust and transparency reminiscent of rise of Athens and Sparta, which led to Peloponnesian war. Despite a number of measures and initiatives there is a reluctance to solve the border issue. The Chinese incursions and aggressive overtures along the border have increased. In addition, there has been infrastructure development in Tibetan plateau, force modernization and force superiority. The environment is one of distrust exacerbated by Indian suspicion of Chinese intent. India doesn't want to be caught unprepared. Therefore, it is developing its infrastructure and modernizing its forces. This bilateral relationship is further strained by U.S. pivot to Asia-Pacific. The U.S. and India share broad strategic interests and values, this closeness makes China wary. As the conditions are militarily set, any miscalculation or mistake would lead to another Sino-Indian conflict. India needs to tread carefully and be sufficiently strong to thwart any threat to its interests and territorial sovereignty.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Dec 13, 2013
- Accession Number
- ADA599319
Entities
People
- Sachindra Joshi
Organizations
- United States Army Command and General Staff College