The potential for hybrid warfare in the Asia-Pacific

In this episode, Meia Nouwens is joined by Dr Samir Puri, The IISS’ new Senior Fellow for Hybrid Warfare, for a discussion about the concept of ‘hybrid warfare’ and its potential applications in the Asia-Pacific. 

Having observed the realities of hybrid warfare in the Donbas region in eastern Ukraine, Samir highlights the differences between ‘grey zone’ and ‘hybrid warfare’ activities.

Meia and Samir then explore the possible applications of hybrid warfare in the Asia-Pacific, with a particular focus on how China could expand its regional influence through hybrid strategies and tactics. 

Samir also predicts that grey zone activity will likely become an increasingly common feature in international affairs in the 2020s as the United States clashes with China’s efforts to establish its own informal empire. As a result, Samir suggests Western powers may need to revisit their hybrid warfare capabilities in this new multi-polar world order. 

We hope you enjoy listening to the episode. Don’t forget to follow, rate and subscribe to Sounds Strategic on wherever you listen to your favourite podcasts.

Date of recording: 2 December 2020

Sounds Strategic is recorded and produced at the IISS in London.

Theme music: ‘Safety in Numbers’ by We Were Promised Jetpacks

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