What Kind of Great Power Will India Be?

Abstract

Although often overshadowed by the rise of China, India's ascent since its era of economic liberalization has been one of the most dramatic developments in the international system over the past quarter century. As India moves toward great-power status, its strategic choices could have game-changing effects on the international system. This paper explores India‘s evolving alignment posture and broader foreign policy orientation, attempting to put India's rapprochement with the United States and other aspects of its strategic behavior in theoretical perspective.

Keywords: India, great power, alliance, alignment, U.S. foreign policy