National Defence Strategy (NDS) of the United States

The United States federal government recently released its National Defence Strategy (NDS), outlining key priorities for the use of force, typically updated every four years. This document aligns closely with the National Security Strategy (NSS) released earlier, marking a strategic shift under President Donald Trump to focus more on domestic concerns rather than global roles historically assumed by the US.

Key Priorities and Implications

• Domestic Focus:
  • Emphasis on addressing migration and the drug trade.
  • The strategy suggests these issues can be managed by dominating the Western Hemisphere.
• Global Alliances:
  • Encourages erstwhile allies to take responsibility for their own defense.
  • Indicates the US has limited interest in conflicts outside its immediate domain.
• China's Challenge:
  • Advises dealing with China through demonstrations of strength rather than direct confrontation.

Regional Implications

• Asia and Taiwan:
  • The NDS is silent on US policy towards Taiwan, causing concern for regional allies.
  • There are doubts about the US honoring treaty commitments, impacting Taiwan's security stance.
• Europe's Reaction:
  • European allies might prefer less US attention, given recent geopolitical interactions.
  • Their defense production capacity, such as Germany's Rheinmetall matching US artillery production, is being enhanced.

India's Position

• Concerns about China's Rise:
  • India has historically benefited from US concern over China’s rise.
  • India's military modernization and economic gap with China pose challenges.
• US Engagement:
  • Withdrawing US focus means India might face an indifferent Washington.