China’s escalating belligerence in neighbouring countries has cast a dark shadow over India. Satellite images revealing the construction of a military facility on the Coco Islands in Myanmar and a proposed remote satellite receiving ground station system in Sri Lanka, both backed by Chinese assistance, have increased surveillance concerns across the region.
Causes of Concern with China’s Surveillance
Coco Islands of Myanmar, located very close to India’s Andaman and Nicobar Island chain are strategically important for India. As part of its aggressive ‘String of Pearls’ policy, China is developing a military facility on these islands, further connecting it to the southern landmass with a new bridge, which can be exploited by the Chinese military anytime. Additionally, the proposed remote satellite receiving ground station in Sri Lanka, given its strategic location, can potentially eavesdrop on Indian assets and gather sensitive information across the region.
Dual-use Nature of Satellite Tracking Facilities
Satellite tracking facilities can be used for both civil and military activities given their inherently dual-use nature. There are fears that India’s satellite launch facilities in Sriharikota and the missile test range in Odisha could come under the scrutiny of this ground station, and the data from launches there could be monitored and used to extract sensitive information.
Key Instances Raising Doubts
There have been worrying instances in the past causing concerns about China’s intentions. In August 2022, the docking of Chinese spy ship ‘Yuan Wang-5’ at Hambantota led to a major diplomatic showdown between India and Sri Lanka. Another vessel ‘Yuan Wang-6’ had entered the Indian Ocean Region in November, coinciding with a planned Indian long-range missile launch.
Location and Strategic importance of Coco Islands
The Coco Islands are situated in the north-eastern Bay of Bengal. They are part of Yangon region of Myanmar and are located very close to the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, making them strategically important.
China’s “String of Pearls” Strategy Explained
The “”String of Pearls”” is a geopolitical theory referring to China’s increasing endeavors to develop its ports and naval bases throughout the Indian Ocean region, thereby gaining greater access and influence in the region. As part of the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), it is also viewed as part of China’s debt trap diplomacy.
India’s Countermeasures Against China’s Strategy
To counter China’s strategies, India has implemented the “Necklace of Diamonds” Strategy, which aims at expanding its naval bases and improving relations with strategically placed countries. India has also signed agreements for military cooperation with Japan, Australia, and the USA, collectively known as the ‘Quad’. Moreover, India is working on building coastal radar networks in the Indian Ocean region and enhancing military and naval relationships with critical partners.
Strategic Investments and Act East Policy
India has made significant diplomatic investments in countries bordering China and has launched the Act East Policy to integrate its economy with South-East Asian nations. Also, to upgrade and train its navy, India has developed a strategic naval relationship with Myanmar.
Way Forward: Enhancing Naval Capabilities and Investments
Increasing naval capabilities and enhancing diplomatic investments are crucial for India to counter China’s escalating belligerence. With initiatives like Aatmanirbhar Bharat abhiyan, focusing on economic growth to project India as an alternative to China in the global economy, and matching the technological advancements being made by China, India can navigate its way forward securely. However, there’s a long way to go as India’s investments look minuscule before China’s.
Last Modified: February 20, 2024