Is China Preparing to Establish Indian Ocean Theatre Command at Gwadar?

Abstract

China is conscious of the fact that projection of power requires dynamic maritime strategy and robust naval capabilities. China knows that unless it is able to secure its interests in the Indian Ocean it will be difficult to sustain economic growth. The land link to the Indian Ocean through China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) and China Myanmar Economic Corridor (CMEC) are important links to gain access to ports in the Indian Ocean but they are not a replacement to the strategic sea lines of communication (SLOC). Land links provide additional connectivity for economic benefits, but land links do not facilitate the projection of power to secure vital strategic interests in the vast Indian Ocean Region (IOR).