Back in 1951, when Tibet did fall to Chinese clutches through the 17 point agreement, with that occupation, China gained more than just territory, it acquired strategic control that supported its ambition to become a global power. On the other hand, when Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru granted asylum to his Holiness, Dalai Lama, then fleeing Chinese persecution in 1959, India forged an enduring emotional bond with the Tibetans. Since then around 114,000 Tibetans have settled in India.

Recent incidents have added fuel to speculation. Notably, in May 2025, Xi Jinping was absent from public view for an extended period. There were no public appearances, no editorials in the People’s Daily and no engagements with foreign dignitaries. For the first time in almost twelve years, he did not attend the BRICS Summit. His notable absence has raised eyebrows, both at home and abroad.

In the 21st century, aerospace power has emerged as a critical determinant of national security and for shaping geopolitics. This paper examines the strategic relevance of aerospace capabilities in modern warfare, and their impact on security framework of nations. The focus is on assessing how the integration of air and space power capabilities influences international relations and global power dynamics. Certain examples from historical and contemporary conflicts bring out the strategic value of aerospace power.

… India’s significant stakes are expected to increase in future … regional expectations for a more proactive strategic engagement by New Delhi … China’s dramatically expanding naval forays in the IOR threatens India’s primacy in its prime theatre … imperative for India to further her power projection ...