India Steps Up Military Aid to Myanmar to Offset China’s Might

India is providing a range of military aid to Myanmar, including aircraft, weapons, software, communications and surveillance equipment, and training. The goal is to counterbalance years of aid – and resource investment – by China. Myanmar will also host a base for an Indian training team, and some members of its special forces will attend counterinsurgency military programs in India, reports Rajaj Pandit for TNN. “After disregarding China's expanding footprint in Myanmar – the only Asean country with which India shares a 1,643-km land as well as a maritime border – New Delhi has been trying to play catch-up over the last few years,” Pandit notes. “A unique gesture during Gen Singh's visit was the handing over of two wargaming software packages called ‘Combat decision resolution’ and ‘Infantry company commanders tactical trainer’ customized for training of the Myanmarese Army.” Observes in the two countries and neighbors will assess whether aid, training and war games prevent or encourage war. – YaleGlobal