Research Fellow, Manohar Parrikar IDSA, Dr. Jagannath Panda’s article ‘Is ‘AUKUS’ a Viable Option?’ has been published in The Diplomat on January 26, 2022.
The article argues that in an increasingly complex multipolar world order, an insulated and restricted alliance has its limitations; a more inclusive forum within AUKUS’ minilateral setting can therefore be imperative to overcome obstacles and have a greater impact. What would an augmented AUKUS encompass? Does inclusivity necessarily imply a formal expansion, or, can the pact allow for a more abstract “Plus” network among “like-minded” Indo-Pacific partners without resorting to an expanded partnership? And what would be the scope of a potential Plus framework?