Pakistan’s maritime security in the Indian Ocean: Geopolitical rivalries, strategic competition, and regional stability

Abstract

The Indian Ocean has become an arena of geopolitical competition due to growing Sino-American rivalry, India’s expanding naval power, and the importance of maritime trade and energy routes. These developments create security challenges for Pakistan because of its location, CPEC, and Gwadar Port. This paper examines how the changing strategic environment affects Pakistan’s maritime security and regional stability. It uses Sea Power Theory and Regional Security Complex Theory to analyse India’s maritime strategy, Indo-Pacific partnerships, Pakistan’s naval modernization, Gwadar and CPEC, and emerging non-traditional maritime threats. Using a qualitative approach, the study analyses academic literature, policy documents, and secondary sources. The findings show that Pakistan faces challenges from naval competition and regional militarization, while cooperation with China offers economic opportunities. The study concludes that stronger maritime institutions, diversified partnerships, blue economy development, energy security, and maritime diplomacy can strengthen Pakistan’s security and regional stability.