This book analyzes the extreme complexity of Indian Ocean developments. It emphasizes the regional dimensions of international politics in the region and considers the activities in the region of three external actors-France, the Soviet Union, and the United States.

Preface -- Introduction -- Regional Powers in the Indian Ocean -- The Strait of Hormuz: The Global Chokepoint -- New Patterns of India’s Relations with Indian Ocean Littoral States -- India’s Nonalignment and Superpower Naval Rivalry in the Indian Ocean -- Australia and the Indian Ocean -- African Conflict and Superpower Involvement in the Western Indian Ocean -- External Powers in the Indian Ocean -- The October War, the 1973–1974 Arab Oil Embargo, and U.S. Policy on the Indian Ocean -- Carter’s Diplomacy and the Indian Ocean Region -- Soviet Arms Supplies and Indian Ocean Diplomacy -- Soviet Naval Policy in the Indian Ocean -- France and the Indian Ocean -- International Organizations in the Indian Ocean -- The United Nations Ad Hoc Committee on the Indian Ocean: Blind Alley or Zone of Peace? -- Demilitarization Proposals for the Indian Ocean