ABSTRACT
This chapter argues that overlapping maritime forays present a new normal because hitherto, Sino-Indian geopolitics had mainly revolved around land-based issues. It focuses on an extensive database compiled by the author over the past few years as part of ongoing research on Indo-Pacific naval modernisation processes. It then presents a work in progress, consolidating and corroborating a diverse array of sources including press remarks and policy statements, including official and academic Chinese-language materials. The chapter provides an overview of the broader context of security dilemma between China and India. It examines the sources underpinning the emergence of an Indo-Pacific new normal between the two rising powers, by discussion about the plausible extension of the security dilemma into the maritime dimension. It then deals with suggestions for future Sino-Indian naval cooperation. The chapter argues that the emergence of the new normal may signify an extension of the traditionally land-based Sino-Indian security dilemma into the maritime dimension.
