Volume V Special Issue II May 2025

Name of Author : Ms. Srijana Sharma, Dr E K Santa

Title of the paper : Power Dynamics and Maritime Security in the South China Sea: Exploring the Transformative Impact of China QUAD

Abstract: The South China Sea, a key maritime route rich in natural resources is the subject of a strategic conflict between China and the nations of QUAD US, Japan, Australia, and India. Chinas aggressive claims inside the Nine Dash Line, are backed by militarisation and island building. This has escalated tensions and challenged the sovereignty of Southeast Asian states. with competing territorial claims. Although the QUAD is not officially recognised military alliance, it endeavours to foster a free and open Indo Pacific by promoting regional stability, ensuring freedom of navigation, and upholding adherence to international law, with emphasis on UNCLOS. Through diplomatic alignment and coordinated naval exercises, QUAD members have increased their cooperation to counterbalance Chinas influence. Though, in the QUAD, issues exist on various national interests. For instance, with the complex relationship with China, India worries about the South China Sea than Japan or Australia. Despite these differences, the QUADs work ensures the security of global trade routes and acts as a check on China by maintaining international standards. Therefore, this study has explored the strategic competition between China and the QUAD for the shaping of power dynamics and maritime security in the South China Sea. Further, the study locates the perspectives of each QUAD member, assesses the implications of Chinas present militarization tactics in the South China Sea, and explores the potential for diplomatic or cooperative resolutions in this contested maritime space.

Keywords : South China Sea, Quadrilateral Security Dialogue, territorial claims, power dynamics, maritime security, militarization.

DOI :

Page Number : 128-134