Introduction

This chapter sets out why India might be investing in military capabilities that, on the face of it, divert resources away from land wars that could directly affect the country's territorial integrity: Why, in short, is India considering power projection at all? It defines power projection as a concept: Why is projecting military power different from using it in the ordinary fashion? The chapter explains the component parts of power projection and draws a distinction between air-power projection and land-power projection. Indian power projection has not emerged out of the blue. India's military commitments during both world wars, though under British direction, were among the farthest-flung of any major power. These factors – economic and military growth, broadening interests, the rise of China and the military's willing adoption of new roles – have been among the primary drivers of Indian interest and investment in power-projection capabilities.