Growing Missile Competition in South Asia and Role of Foreign Powers: Ramifications for Deterrence Stability

Abstract

India is seeking the status of a global power. Any step taken by India to strengthen its defence poses a security dilemma for its neighbours. Pakistan, being a security conscious state, has had to restore the balance of power, whenever India off-set the equation. Indian quest to develop BMDs alongside its ambitious nuclear and missile program has triggered a missile race in South Asia which risks destabilizing the regional equilibrium. The US decision to make India a net security provider in the region and Indian acquisition of high-tech military hardware has become the driving force promoting Indian domination in the region. These developments warrant an objective analysis of the situation to evaluate the growing risks to regional security particularly the accelerating missile race in South Asia. If the strategic partnership between India and the US continues to grow at the expense of other states’ security, Pakistan shall have to look at the option of formalizing defence ties with China besides regional integration with other states.