Book Title:
Edge of Competition: Disruption, Division, and Competition in the Indo-Pacific

Editor
Dr. James M. Minnich

Abstract

The Indo-Pacific is no longer a region on the brink—it is the epicenter of global transformation. Edge of Competition maps the region’s fault lines, where accelerating technologies, fractured legitimacy, and intensified power rivalries redefine strategic advantage. From rocket races and nuclear posture shifts to contested sovereignty and industrial realignment, this volume offers critical insights for navigating an era of competitive multipolarity.

Foreword
Author: Major General (Ret.) Suzanne “Suzy” Puanani Vares-Lum

Preface
Author: Dr. James M. Minnich

Chapter 1: Edges of Instability

Author: Dr. James M. Minnich

Abstract: The Indo-Pacific is gripped by systemic volatility, shaped by disruptive technologies, fractured political authority, and escalating contests for strategic advantage. This chapter lays the conceptual foundation for the volume, framing the region’s rapid transformation through the intersecting forces of disruption, division, and competition.

Chapter 2: Disruptive Risks of Globalization 

Author: Dr. Sebastian Kevany

Abstract: Globalization remains foundational but increasingly generates economic exposure, political fragmentation, and asymmetric vulnerabilities. This chapter dissects how interdependence can be weaponized in a competitive multipolar order.

Chapter 3: Peak China?

Author: Colonel Ryan C. Agee

Abstract: China’s rise shows signs of peaking as demographic decline, inefficiencies, and external resistance converge. This chapter assesses whether China’s trajectory can be sustained and what that means for global power dynamics.

Chapter 4: China’s Reusable Rocket Surge

Author: Elliot Joseph Fox

Abstract: China’s rapid progress in reusable launch technologies threatens to shift the economics, tempo, and strategic balance of global space operations. This chapter explores how space access and launch cadence are emerging as key dimensions of national power.

Chapter 5: Terrorism after the Caliphate

Dr. Sam Mullins

Abstract: The collapse of the Islamic State’s territorial control has not eliminated its ideological threat. This chapter maps the evolving nature of violent extremism in the Indo-Pacific and outlines strategies for sustained counterterrorism resilience.

Chapter 6: China’s Nuclear Rise

Author: Dr. Bill Wieninger

Abstract: China is transitioning from minimal deterrence to a more credible, survivable nuclear posture. This chapter examines the implications for crisis stability, arms control, and U.S. strategic planning.

Chapter 7: Myanmar on the Edge

Author: Dr. Miemie Winn Byrd

Abstract: Myanmar’s post-coup descent into civil war and state collapse threatens regional security and humanitarian stability. This chapter argues for calibrated, values-based engagement in response to a metastasizing crisis.

Chapter 8: India’s Strategic Ascent

Authors: Shyam Tekwani and Saumya Sampath

Abstract: India is asserting strategic autonomy through deeper defense partnerships, economic modernization, and diplomatic recalibration. This chapter explores how India is positioning itself as a leading regional power amid shifting alignments.

Chapter 9: South Asia’s Strategic Edge

Authors: Shyam Tekwani and Saumya Sampath

Abstract: Small South Asian states like Nepal, Bhutan, and the Maldives are leveraging geographic and diplomatic positioning to shape outcomes in a contested region. This chapter shows how agency, not size, defines strategic relevance.

Chapter 10: ASEAN Leadership in Flux

Author: Dr. Scott D. McDonald

Abstract: ASEAN faces mounting pressure to evolve beyond its role as a neutral convener as strategic rivalry deepens and regional expectations grow. This chapter argues that by adopting Communities of Common Interest (CCIs), ASEAN can convert internal diversity into strategic coherence and lead in shaping a values-based regional security architecture grounded in regional agency and consensus.

Chapter 11: Pacific Small States, Big Stakes

Authors: Dr. Kevin D. Stringer and Madison Urban

Abstract: Pacific Island microstates hold disproportionate sway over maritime governance, digital infrastructure, and international legitimacy. This chapter reveals how strategic geography and multilateral leverage amplify their influence.

Chapter 12: Korea’s Strategic Clarity

Author: Dr. Lami Kim

Abstract: Caught between its security ally and its largest trading partner, South Korea has long relied on strategic ambiguity to navigate great power rivalry. Through two critical test cases—THAAD and the “Three Nos” policy—this chapter traces the limits of hedging and argues that growing geopolitical pressure, domestic sentiment, and alliance expectations are converging to make strategic clarity not only inevitable but necessary.

Chapter 13: Contesting the South China Sea

Author: Dr. Denny Roy

Abstract: Chinese expansionism in the South China Sea is intensifying resistance from regional claimants and outside powers. This chapter details how nations are responding with deterrent signaling, capacity building, and legal resilience.

Chapter 14: Safeguarding India’s Submarine Cables

Author: Divya Rai

Abstract: India’s ascent as a digital hub is anchored to fragile glass fibers on the seabed, assets now squarely in the crosshairs of gray-zone coercion. This chapter maps the vulnerabilities, exposes the legal blind spots, and delivers a twelve-point action plan that turns undersea cables from soft targets into shock-absorbing levers of Indo-Pacific power.

Chapter 15: Dissuading Sea Slavery

Author: Anny Barlow

Abstract: Modern slavery in the fishing industry persists due to fragmented governance and opaque supply chains. This chapter presents a strategic dissuasion framework that integrates maritime enforcement, financial accountability, and international law.

Chapter 16: Battlerace for Industrial Power

Author: Dr. Srini Sitaraman

Abstract: Industrial policy has reemerged as a core instrument of statecraft in the 21st century, with the United States, China, and Europe racing to secure technological dominance and supply chain resilience. This chapter contends that in a world of competitive multipolarity, industrial strategy is no longer optional; it is the bedrock of national security and geopolitical leverage.

Afterword: Positioned for Advantage

Author: Dr. James M. Minnich

Abstract: Strategic advantage in the Indo-Pacific will not be won through static dominance but by agile engagement at the contested edges. This concluding chapter calls for adaptive leadership, clarity of purpose, and forward-looking cooperation in an age of flux.