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Abstract
This article analyzes how Russia recalibrated its Indian Ocean policy after the Soviet collapse. It traces the shift from expeditionary blue-water presence to selective partnerships driven by economic constraints, naval retrenchment, and a search for arms markets. The study reviews ties with India, outreach to Gulf and East African littorals, and interests in sea-lanes, energy, and counter-terrorism. It argues that Moscow’s dilemma lay in reconciling great-power identity with limited resources, prompting a strategy that leveraged defense exports, port calls, and diplomatic forums over sustained deployments.
Full Text
The body begins with a historical overview of Soviet activities in the Indian Ocean, including support facilities and naval task groups. Section One discusses post-1991 fiscal austerity, force structure cuts, and the implications for sustained presence. Section Two maps bilateral vectors—defense cooperation with India, cautious ties with Pakistan, and political engagement with Iran and Gulf states—emphasizing commercial logic. Section Three considers multilateral diplomacy and anti-piracy beginnings, while evaluating intelligence sharing and technology transfers. Section Four assesses long-term prospects: modernization cycles, energy corridors, and potential re-entry via joint exercises. The conclusion contends that Russia’s Indian Ocean approach became pragmatic and opportunistic, trading permanent posture for flexible influence.