As alliances are altered, India finds itself in a position that calls for dexterous, nimble and bold policies. India is also presented with an opportunity to wield influence that would place it in an advantageous geopolitical position. Strategic Challenges aims to form a fuller picture of the situation by examining the various pieces that make up this dynamic kaleidoscope, with chapters authored by India's leading thinkers, analysts and strategists.
Beginning with an introduction by the former foreign secretary, Vijay Gokhale, the topics the book tackles include the volatility of India's neighbourhood, its hesitant embrace of the US, implications of Russia's warming ties with China, modern military technology on land, sea and air, and the challenges of artificial intelligence, among others.
Jayadeva Ranade, a former additional secretary, Research and Analysis Wing, is a security and intelligence expert. He is a seasoned China analyst with over forty-five years of experience in the field and has studied Chinese at the Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi and Hongkong University. His foreign assignments have included Hong Kong, Beijing and his last foreign posting, prior to retirement in late 2008, was as minister in the Indian Embassy in Washington. Ranade was a member of the National Security Advisory Board and is presently president of the Centre for China Analysis and Strategy and a distinguished fellow with the Centre for Air Power Studies. He frequently contributes articles on China to many national newspapers, magazines and publications.