The evolution of military capabilities of Asian nations from wealth to power projection
Singapore Armed Forces2022
Magazines
Total copies: 1
In this essay, the author theorises that a state’s growth in economic might is often matched by an increasingly outward-facing strategic vision and a corresponding build-up of military power projection capabilities. He cited the example of the United States, a growing economic power by the late 19th century, who managed to overcome its isolationist foreign policy and rise to its global role. The author then explores the relationship between wealth and power, highlighting that as nations become increasingly wealthy, they extend themselves globally as well as equip themselves with military tools to influence areas far beyond their borders. The author proceeds with a definition of military power projection. He then analyses the examples of China, India and Japan and shows how the acquisition of such capabilities by each country is inextricably linked to their rising economic strength and increasingly global strategic vision.