Arms Transfer Dependence and Foreign Policy in Indo Pacific
Ganesh A. Wicaksono, Curie Maharani, Aninda Rahmasari

International Relations Department, Faculty of Humanities, Bina Nusantara University, Jakarta, Indonesia 11480

Abstract

This study attempts to evaluate how the superpowers use arms transfer as a policy tool to extend influence toward smaller or potentially conflicting countries. To do so, the study will investigate the linkage between arms export policy of three big powers, namely the United States, China, and Russia, and the pattern of arms transfer and dependency in twelve Indo Pacific countries. The study will be structured in two phases: First, clarify the evolving concept of how arms transfers and foreign policy interlace. Second, measure the diversification and dependency index of Indo Pacific countries using arms transfer dependence model proposed by Catrina (1988) and Kinsella (1998). This study found the three big powers focused their arms transfer towards its long-time allies. Additionally, the big powers tend to adjust their arms transfer policy to prevent its rival from gaining influence in prospective region. In this regard, some countries are either given the offer of advanced armaments, hindrance toward procuring arms from rivalling state, other or comparable alternatives that allows transfer of military technology towards domestic defence industries.

Keywords: arms transfer dependence model, military technology, foreign policy, arms export control, arms production, arms diversification, Indo Pacific

Topic: Economic, Business and Technology