This article examines China’s strategic ambitions in the Indo-Pacific region through the lens of its “Zhōngguó” or “Middle Kingdom” dream of regaining its perceived historical dominance. It traces the deep roots of this aspiration in Chinese nationalism and the Chinese Communist Party’s narrative of reclaiming lost territories. The article analyzes China’s coercive actions to expand its influence in the East and South China Seas, the Indian Ocean region, and along its land borders with India. It highlights China’s growing military capabilities, particularly its increasing use of land-based airpower to complement its maritime forces. The article argues that countering China’s aggressive strategies requires a collective, multi-domain approach integrating the strengths of regional powers like India, the United States, and others who believe in a rules-based international order. It calls for cooperation across land, maritime, air, space, and cyber domains to ensure a free, open, and prosperous Indo-Pacific.

The piece by the author was first published as Senior Leaders Perspective in the Journal of Indo Pacific Affairs Vol 7 No 3 May-Jun 2024.