This paper argues that Chinese assertiveness and uncertainties about America’s role in Indo-Pacific Asia are causing middle powers to look for alternative approaches to regional security. The paper argues that enhanced security cooperation between Indo-Pacific middle powers should be extended to the creation of “middle-power coalitions” in the region.

Key findings

• China’s assertiveness and uncertainties about America’s response are causing middle powers in Indo-Pacific Asia to looking beyond traditional approaches to security
• Cooperation between Indo-Pacific middle power coalitions would build regional resilience against the vagaries of US-China relations
• India and Australia are well placed to form the core of middle power coalition building.