ABSTRACT
This chapter analyses the strategies of middle powers in conflict formations, which are regions characterised by an expectation and prevalence of conflict. The chapter focuses on India, Japan and South Korea. Analysing official policy documents presented by the governments in each country, the chapter first outlines the threat perceptions in each state, followed by their strategic ends, means, and ways. In terms of both alignment strategy and military strategy, South Korea and Japan have followed similar approaches. Thus, due to the presence of two great powers, China and the US, in the Northeast Asian region, both South Korea and Japan have applied alignment strategies based on regional balancing. In terms of military strategy, both used multilateral ways, and have mainly had the survival of the state as their end. In contrast, India has been able to develop its strategy more independently, resulting in an isolationistic alignment strategy. Regarding military strategy, India has sought influence and status, partly reflected in the state’s acquirement of nuclear weapons, while the country has applied unilateral ways. Still, in terms of means, the tension within their surrounding environments have limited all three states to developing forces focused on national defence.
