Strategic Impact upon the United States of Future Naval Rivalries in South and Southeast Asia.

摘要

This thesis argues that the removal of the Cold War's stabilizing effect on Asian-Pacific security has revealed an escalating level of anxiety and growing mutual mistrust among the nations of this region, indicating future instability and possible conflict. The scaling back of military commitments in the region by the United States, combined with historical animosities are currently fueling a regional arms race among China, India, Japan, and the nations of ASEAN. These nations are thus preparing to utilize improved naval forces to play an influential if not leading role in the emerging regional power structure. Naval development programs of these nations are examined in detail. This thesis posits that the United States maintains vital economic and security interests in this region and therefore must be actively involved in the formation of a new regional power structure. The thesis concludes with an examination of future options for U.S. military presence in Asia.