A snapshot of key events and trends shaping the Indo-Pacific region in January 2026, including defense cooperation, strategic infrastructure development, and foreign policy shifts.
January 2026 witnessed a dynamic Indo-Pacific, characterized by both competition and collaboration. US support for India's tech and defense sectors continued, even as China expanded its naval capabilities. Enhanced Indo-German defense ties and visa-free transit highlighted strengthening Indo-European partnerships. The Quad's struggles to convene a leader-level summit reflected evolving power dynamics. India's foreign policy is adapting to these changes, including potential challenges from a second Trump term, and its strategic alignment is shifting with participation in US-led groupings. The US National Defense Strategy shift, urging allies to take greater responsibility for their own security, further complicates the regional landscape, viewing China as a settled force.
The US Defense Strategy shifted focus, urging allies to handle their own security and viewing China as a settled force in the Indo-Pacific.
India is reassessing its foreign policy in response to the changing global landscape and deepening its strategic alignment by joining US-led international groupings.
An article discussed the strengthening Indo-European ties between Germany and India in a volatile world, emphasizing cooperation in trade, technology, and security.
India and Germany enhanced defense cooperation, focusing on co-production and co-development, and introduced visa-free transit for Indian passport holders.
An analysis highlighted the Quad's challenges in 2025 amidst geopolitical shifts and the return of President Trump.
An editorial explored the parallel track of cooperation and differences in India-U.S. relations.
An editorial analyzed China's assertive foreign policy under Xi Jinping and its economic challenges.
India inaugurated upgraded railway infrastructure in the Andaman & Nicobar Islands, enhancing strategic capabilities, while China launched a new Type 055 guided-missile destroyer, bolstering its naval power.
The US granted export licenses to TSMC and Boeing for India, boosting technology and defense cooperation.
Exam Notes
Constitutional articles, acts & key terms
Practice Questions
31 MCQs, 11 Mains questions
