Indo-Pacific Region | The Runway

KEY POINTS:

Vast Geographical Range: It spans from eastern Africa to the western Americas, including the Indian and Pacific Oceans.
Economic Hub: Home to major economies like Australia, India, and China, it's a global economic powerhouse.
Strategic Hotspot: Due to its location, it's a focal point for geopolitical competition and security concerns.
Critical Trade Routes: It hosts essential shipping lanes, facilitating global trade.
Cultural Diversity: Rich in languages, religions, and traditions, it's culturally vibrant.

Strategic Influence

Indonesia is more important than ever: Australia must nurture the relationship

Indonesia’s BRICS (Brazil, Rusia, India, China, South Africa) alignment signals a broader global shift. Australia’s waning influence in Indonesia demands urgent, targeted engagement. AUKUS created long-term unease in Indonesia. Defence and diplomacy must work in tandem.

Strategic Influence

Are America's Indo-Pacific Friends Flirting with China?

It appears so, but U.S. policy alone is not enough to produce a change—Beijing will have to capitalize on the emerging geopolitical inflection point if it wants to ensure a long-lasting shift.

Strategic Influence

ASEAN’s elusive code of conduct for the South China Sea

The South China Sea is a hotly contested area of geopolitical significance. For years, ASEAN and China have been slowly forging a path towards a peaceful resolution, but various issues continue to handicap the process.

Strategic Influence

Solomon Islands PM Avoids No Confidence Vote, But Is Potentially Weakened

The PM retained power after political defections, but ongoing instability could challenge regional planning ahead of a major international summit. Opposition movement led by former PM Sogavare who switched Government recognition from Taiwan to China.

Strategic Influence

DOD building $400 million fuel storage facility in Papua New Guinea

The US is funding the 70 million gallon facility as part of growing military ties under a 2023 defence agreement that reflects the need for dispersed and resilient infrastructure. Manus Island naval facilities also under construction.

Air & Space Power

5-mile range: US deploys 6,000 rpm fire rate air defense system in Philippines

This marks a significant step in US-Philippine military cooperation. MADIS is a mobile short-range air defence system designed to protect U.S. Marines from air threats, including planes and helicopters, cruise missiles, and drones.

Strategic Influence

Why on earth would Russia want a military base in Indonesia

Biak airbase is close to Darwin and Guam. Speculation over Russia’s interest has raised concerns—especially as shifting regional ties and Jakarta’s non-alignment could change how nearby nations manage strategic risks. Indonesia prioritises self-interest in partnerships

Strategic Influence

A critical eye over the Republic of Singapore Navy

Singapore has one of the most efficient and innovative small naval forces in the world balancing offensive power, disaster relief and modern technology. Helicopters belong to Air Force, not Navy. Patrols deter Malacca Strait piracy.

Military History

Asia without America? History shows Australia can be confident shaping regional security

Australia took the lead in the Five Power Defence Arrangements-Aust, NZ, UK, Singapore and Malaysia showing we have the history, partnerships and capability to shape regional stability—especially when global powers are focused elsewhere.

Strategic Influence

Australia Can Take USAID’s Place in the Pacific Islands

With rising regional needs and fading U.S. presence, Australia has both the trust and tools to step up and provide meaningful support—before others take that space. Aid must align with local climate concerns.

Strategic Influence

Climate risks to security in the Indo-Pacific: Indonesia in 2035

Australia may have underestimated the effects of climate change on Indonesian economy and security interests. Severe food insecurity, widespread population displacement, and slow economic growth are ways that Indonesia may experience climate disruptions.

Strategic Influence

Indonesia–Australia Defence Cooperation Under Prabowo

Australia is Indonesia’s second-most important defence partner. Building a strong partnership requires trust—addressing historical concerns including Timor Leste and perceived Australian support for separatists important. Maritime security and defence industry collaboration a shared priority.

Strategic Influence

Italy can play a role in the Indo-Pacific—but must do it its own way

Italy is a major European power and recognizes the importance of security in the Indo-Pacific; but it needs to play its part in a way that makes use of its specific military expertise and capabilities.

Communication & Cognition

It’s Time for the ADF to Train in Asia-Pacific Languages

Australia’s defence partnerships rely on trust—language and cultural fluency are essential. Shifting the focus to regional languages like Tok Pisin and Bahasa would improve engagement and operational effectiveness.

Strategic Influence

How Australia is advancing gender equality in the Indo-Pacific

DFAT has released the International Gender Equality Strategy aimed at strengthening relationships in the Indo-Pacific region; specifically focussing on gender considerations during humanitarian and climate assistance, as well as promoting inclusive trade and economic equality.

Strategic Influence

How U.S.-Russia-China Ties Would Impact the Indo-Pacific

The Trump administration is seeking improved relations with China and Russia. US allies like Japan and South Korea may express some deep concerns, while many Southeast Asian countries would be cautiously optimistic.

Technology & Innovation

New Zealand Conducts Inaugural Penguin Firing

A Royal New Zealand Air Force Seasprite helicopter fired the missile which replaces Mavericks in the helicopter-borne anti-ship role- enhancing maritime strike capability and supporting international security operations in the Middle East.

Strategic Influence

New Zealand’s Trouble in Paradise

China’s growing ties with Kiribati and the Cook Islands challenge New Zealand’s confrontational Pacific diplomacy and risk straining regional relations. However, Australia has managed to maintain trust with its Pacific neighbors despite similar challenges.

Strategic Influence

In its Indo-Pacific strategy, France should engage more with Pacific islanders

France is revising its strategy—currently defence-industry focused—to prioritise local concerns, especially human security: rights, health, and prosperity over US-China rivalry. A new Australia-France cooperation roadmap was signed in 2023.

Strategic Influence

To “protect-and-project” – A call for Australian land power in the Indo-Pacific

The author argues that effectively integrating land power can safeguard Australian national interests. Land control is physical, psychological, and symbolic. Littoral manoeuvre, amphibious operations and long-range land strikes are vital.

Strategic Influence

Indonesia needs to improve its seabed warfare capability

Indonesia’s dependence on underwater infrastructure makes it vulnerable to sabotage, impacting the region. Its defence capabilities remain limited for its size. Increased training, global cooperation, and multinational seabed warfare exercises are essential for security.

Communication & Cognition

The Pacific Disinformation Playbook

This article highlights how disinformation threatens Pacific communities, with 80% online. It erodes trust in science and government, spreading quickly through networks. Culturally tailored, community-driven solutions are needed to protect information integrity.

Strategic Influence

Australia considers allowing Pacific Island residents to join defence force

The proposal is aimed to help boost the number of Australian Defence Force personnel.

Strategic Influence

Australia considers allowing Pacific Island residents to join defence force

The proposal is aimed to help boost the number of Australian Defence Force personnel.

Strategic Influence

Bill urges Pentagon to speed JADC2 transition in focus on Indo-Pacific

The bill is to ensure the Department of Defense prioritizes the Combined Joint All-Domain Command and Control (JADC).

Communication & Cognition

New study highlights barriers to engaging Pacific men supporting women’s leadership

In the Pacific, words like ‘feminism’ could provoke resistance towards gender equality; article suggests leveraging cultural values such as cooperation to promote positive change

Strategic Influence

LINKS TO ARTICLES ABOUT: CLIMATE CHANGE AND ITS IMPACT ON PACIFIC ISLAND NATIONS

Climate change significantly affects Pacific Island nations, threatening ecosystems, livelihoods, and cultural heritage.

Strategic Influence

One Step Forward, Two Steps Back: Women’s Political Representation in the Pacific

Progress for women’s political participation and leadership within the Pacific has been slow despite an appetite for change

Strategic Influence

How are global powers engaging with the Pacific? And who is most effective? These 5 maps provide a glimpse

Australia, New Zealand, the US, France, the UK, and Japan are reengaging with the Pacific Islands, but better clarity and coordination are required.

Strategic Influence

How are global powers engaging with the Pacific? And who is most effective? These 5 maps provide a glimpse

Australia, New Zealand, the US, France, the UK, and Japan are reengaging with the Pacific Islands, but better clarity and coordination are required.

Strategic Influence

Both the US and Australia are adamant the Pacific “matters”. But only one is really moving the dial.

The US, with a focus on climate change, fisheries, and security, signed a security agreement with PNG, where their regional military presence surpasses that of China, countering Chinese influence.

Strategic Influence

2023 Pacific Aid Map Reveals Chinese Aid in Retreat

China's aid to the Pacific has decreased and is now strategically directed to enhance its influence in the region.

Strategic Influence

Fiji PM Sitiveni Rabuka calls for 'Zone of Peace' in the Pacific in Canberra speech

The "Zone" aims to mitigate US-China competition. Mr. Rabuka also pursued stronger ties with Australia and New Zealand, signifying a departure from contentious Chinese agreements.

Strategic Influence

Fiji PM Sitiveni Rabuka calls for 'Zone of Peace' in the Pacific in Canberra speech

The "Zone" aims to mitigate US-China competition. Mr. Rabuka also pursued stronger ties with Australia and New Zealand, signifying a departure from contentious Chinese agreements.

Strategic Influence

US warns it will defend Philippines after Chinese vessels incidents

Under a 1951 treaty, Washington is obligated to defend the Philippines if the forces, vessels, or aircraft of the Philippines come under attack in the disputed waters.

Strategic Influence

What's behind Vietnam's worsening sex ratio imbalance?

Vietnam is grappling with a significant gender imbalance due to cultural norms and recent policies.

Military History

RAN in the Pacific War

The Royal Australian Navy (RAN) was vital in supporting Allied forces during WW2, which involved sinking enemy submarines, supporting land operations and providing vitally important convoy escorts.

Strategic Influence

Women on the Frontlines of Pacific Peacebuilding

The text discusses the significant role Pacific women play in peacebuilding efforts and emphasizes the importance of recognizing and supporting their contributions to realize a peaceful Pacific region.

Strategic Influence

Why Women Matter to Peace and Security in the Indo-Pacific

The United States Institute of Peace (USIP) emphasizes gender-inclusive policies for security and peace in the Indo-Pacific. A panel discussion with U.S. INDOPACOM members highlighted progress and strategies for gender-inclusive security operations.

Military History

Air Power Saved South Vietnam in 1972, But Couldn't Win the War

This article discusses how airpower, specifically the U.S. Air Force and Navy, played a critical role in saving South Vietnam during the Easter Offensive of 1972.

Where has New Zealand’s women, peace and security agenda gone?

New Zealand's women, peace and security agenda has stalled since the first National Action Plan expired in 2019. Despite positive progress, the lack of a new plan risks NZ falling behind other countries in the region and missing out on important opportunities.

Strategic Influence

Singapore Commits To F-35B Stealth Jets With Follow-On Order

The city-state will purchase another eight F-35B short take-off and vertical landing jets as its armed forces continue their modernization drive.

Strategic Influence

‘Hodgepodge of tech’: What makes Indonesia’s naval buildup vulnerable?

Its Minimum Essential Force plan calls for a 274-ship green-water fleet, ten fighter squadrons and 12 new diesel-electric submarines.

Strategic Influence

India faces deepening demographic divide as it prepares to overtake China as the world’s most populous country

In 2023, India's population will be greater than China's—but most of India's future population growth will be within its much poorer northern states, whereas in its wealthier southern states, its population will be getting older.

Strategic Influence

U.S. and South Korean militaries launch biggest-ever air drills

Operation Vigilant Storm will involve US and South Korean air forces flying 1,600 sorties, including close air support, defensive counter air, and emergency air operations 24 hours a day.

Strategic Influence

China Has Lost India

Despite regular high-level meetings, increased Chinese investment in India, defence exchanges and multilateral coordination, the appearance of business-as-usual obscures real disagreements between the two countries.

Strategic Influence

When will India become an upper-middle-income country like China? Unlikely for 25 years

India's current gross national income means the World Bank classifies it as a lower middle-income country (MIC)---however; it might take 25 years of sustained growth before it becomes an upper MIC such as China .

Strategic Influence

South Korea, U.S., Japan stage anti-submarine drills amid North Korea tension

The drills were held in international waters off the Korean peninsula's east coast, just a day after North Korea fired two ballistic missiles into the sea off its east coast, and US Vice President Kamala Harris visited Seoul.

Strategic Influence

Commentary: How F-35B fighter jets can boost Singapore’s air defence amid upcoming Paya Lebar Air Base move

Air power is an integral part of Singapore's defence strategy, and the acquisition of the F-35B should significantly increase Singapore's air power capability.

Strategic Influence

South Korea, Japan discuss goals at Australia’s Pitch Black exercise

Australia's unrestricted airspace was a drawcard for South Korean and Japanese air forces aircraft, enabling them to practise air-to-air and air-to-ground missions whilst improving interoperability in large force scenarios.

Strategic Influence

If India and China were friends, Asia would be more developed. But they are not

For more than 70 years, China has been a major concern for the Indian security establishment. There are valid reasons for this concern, including the humiliating Indian defeat in 1962, which continues to haunt the country.

Strategic Influence

Quad Summit to focus on key challenges, ways to keep Indo-Pacific free and open

Differences between India and the other members of Quad – Australia, Japan and the US on the Ukraine conflict are unlikely to hinder growing military and economic cooperation.

Strategic Influence

How South Korea's new president could shake up the region

South Korea's new president-elect Yoon Suk Yeol won the election by less than one percentage point—in his campaign, he promised to take a tougher stance with North Korea.

Strategic Influence

Defence to grow to largest size since Vietnam War, increasing by nearly 20,000 people by 2040

With global instability worsening—thanks to Russia and China, in particular—Australia will increase the number of uniformed Defence personnel to almost 80,000 personnel.

Strategic Influence

Pacific Islands Forum's head to be replaced, FSM President David Panuelo says, after leadership dispute

This article argues that the proposed withdrawal of Micronesian States from the Pacific Islands Forum has been delayed until June 2022 to allow consensus to be reached on the Secretary General position.

Strategic Influence

Southeast Asia Matters To Australia

While Southeast Asia has been a foreign policy priority for Australia since the 1940s, Australia still has ample room to grow its engagement with the region.

Strategic Influence

North Korea Confirms Test Launch Of Ballistic Missile Capable Of Hitting Guam (20 Feb)

North Korea has test-launched a ballistic missile capable of reaching Guam ending North Korea's self-imposed prohibition on testing nuclear weapons and long-range missiles--tensions between North Korea and the U.S. and South Korea continue to grow.

Strategic Influence

Indonesia standing between great powers

This article argues that non-aligned Indonesia will continue a middle course between the US and China because it doesn’t want to alienate either.

Strategic Influence

Where next for EU security policy in the Asia-Pacific?

The European Union is committed to more involvement in the Indo-Pacific, considering economic, capability and geopolitical constraints.

Strategic Influence

It will really poke the panda’: New Zealand’s defence document breaks new ground on China

For the first time, New Zealand openly identifies China as a serious threat to New Zealand's interests.

Japan, Vietnam Look to Cyber Defense Against China

Japan and Vietnam are working together to ensure they are prepared to counter the growing number of cyberattacks; many of these attacks appear to originate from China.

Strategic Influence

Australia can count on Vietnam to support AUKUS

Despite Vietnam’s apparent neutrality regarding AUKUS, the reality is that Vietnam is quietly supportive of anything likely to maintain the continuity of the international rules-based order.

Technology & Innovation

Australia-Indonesia and Climate Change.

By making our renewable energy expertise available to Indonesia, Australia has a unique opportunity to enhance our vital relationship with Indonesia.

Strategic Influence

AUKUS can strengthen India’s strategic autonomy

AUKUS provides India with the opportunity to get a better deal from its military hardware suppliers and perhaps acquire previously restricted technology from the US.

Strategic Influence

PNG and Fiji were both facing COVID catastrophes. Why has one vaccine rollout surged and the other stalled?

Strong leadership and public support have enabled Fiji to achieve nearly complete vaccination against Covid-19; however, misleading social media and untrustworthy politicians has left PNG with a very low vaccination rate.

Strategic Influence

Ministerial meetings show deepening ties between Australia and South Korea

Australia’s close relationship with the Republic of Korea has just gotten closer following the 2021 meeting between defence and foreign affairs ministers.

The world is desperate for new antibiotics, and New Zealand’s unique fungi look promising

With antibiotics becoming increasingly resistant to infections, New Zealand's biodiversity might provide a solution.

Strategic Influence

ANZUS at 70: ANZUS and New Zealand

If directly attacked, and in the South Pacific, Australia can expect strong New Zealand support but not necessarily in conflicts in Southeast Asia or Papua New Guinea.

Strategic Influence

After years in planning, US gets serious about strategic dialogue with Indonesia.

The US giving priority to its relationship with Indonesia, which is good news for Australia.

Strategic Influence

Australia and New Zealand should help their island neighbours get into space

This ASPI article argues that Australia and New Zealand should be helping their Pacific neighbours to access space capabilities.

Strategic Influence

New Zealand’s re-elected Labour government shows it has less appetite for geopolitics

The strongly pro-defence New Zealand First Party losing all of its seats at the last election might result in domestic issues taking priority over defence.

Strategic Influence

Australia's Pacific step-up and the Quad

Australia, India, Japan and the US need to work together to maximise development for Pacific Island Nations for mutual strategic and economic benefit.

Strategic Influence

Declassification of secret document reveals US strategy in the Indo-Pacific

The recently declassified (Jan 2021) US policy document on the Indo-Pacific shows the importance that the US attaches to the views of Australia, Japan and India.

Strategic Influence

Britain tilts towards the Indo-Pacific

After leaving the EU, the UK intends to increase its defence spending and among other things, focus on the Indo-Pacific Region.

Strategic Influence

Avoiding a “lost decade” in the Pacific

Being remote has protected the Pacific from the worst of the Covid-19 pandemic—however, the economic damage has been severe.

Strategic Influence

Germany plans a greater peace and security role in the Indo-Pacific

Germany, the EU and NATO have expressed an interest in developing closer defence cooperation ties with Australia.

Strategic Influence

RCEP Will Redraw the Economic and Strategic Map of the Indo-Pacific

The Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RECP), that includes China, could have significant strategic implications for our region.

Strategic Influence

Ocean horizons: Strengthening maritime security in Indo-Pacific island states

Australia needs a whole of government approach to improving regional maritime security.

Strategic Influence

Climate and Security in the Indo-Asia Pacific

Climate change must be a security priority for the Indo-Asia Pacific region.

Dr Charles Edel at the Strategy and the Future of War Conference held at ADFA, Canberra.

Air & Space Power

APC 2020 Dr Charles Edel: Great Powers and Regional Dynamics of the Indo-Pacific

The US-led rules-based order is not facing an ideological struggle, it is facing a multi-layered, compounding series of threats.

Strategic Influence

Amid Escalating Tension With China, Australia and India Strengthen Partnership

Australia wants a stronger relationship with India which could produce greater security, diplomatic and trade cooperation.

Strategic Influence

Enhancing Forward Defense: The Role of Allies and Partners in the Indo-Pacific

The US needs to engage in new ways with its Indo-Pacific Allies to maintain regional stability.