India-Japan Strategic Ties Deepen Amid China's Expanding Naval Reach in Indo-Pacific

India and Japan are strengthening their partnership in the Indo-Pacific region, with experts pointing to China's growing economic and maritime influence as a key driver. While China's navy has established its first overseas base in Djibouti and is active in the Bay of Bengal and Indian Ocean, analysts emphasise that Beijing's military power is still primarily focused on deterring the United States and asserting dominance over smaller regional players.

Former Indian Ambassador to Japan Sujan R Chinoy noted that China's military might is not yet global. 'China's growing military might is still focused on ensuring the limit of US power on its periphery. It is deterrence vis-a-vis the United States, including in the Taiwan Strait, but it is also partly dominance against lesser powers in the region,' he said during a discussion with NDTV.

Chinoy also highlighted that the Chinese fleet last sailed in the Indian Ocean in the 15th century under Admiral Zheng He. He noted that while high seas are open to all, China's current presence is a function of its economic growth, protection of sea lines of communication, Belt and Road projects, and strategic requirements. He described the presence as 'alien' and called for like-minded countries to cooperate to ensure it does not harm their interests.

Japan is also shifting its defence posture. Former Japanese Ambassador to India Kenji Hiramatsu stated that Tokyo is focusing more on defence spending. 'Prime Minister Takaichi has a very strong view that we have to spend more money for our national defence. At the same time, we have more opportunity to cooperate with other friendly countries like India. So, our defence policy is now transforming in a significant way,' he said.

Admiral Sunil Lanba, former Indian Navy Chief, underscored China's maritime capabilities: 'The Chinese Navy is the largest navy numerically in the world. They have the largest coast guard, maritime militia, fishing fleet, and have captured 55-60% of global shipbuilding. They are a maritime power to be reckoned with.' He added that the play is only going to increase, urging India and Japan to focus on holistic maritime power.

Both countries are exploring ways to enhance cooperation in the Indo-Pacific, where freedom of navigation and rule of law remain key concerns.