Indo-China war not too far away: Aus Report

Canberra, May 9: An Australian Army internal report has claimed that both China and India may stir up a war in the Indian Ocean Rim region in the not too distant future.

According to the White Paper, a copy of which has been accessed by The Australian, makes hawkish comments about India and China's military ambitions. A draft copy of an army report, Army's Future Land Operating Concept, due to be finalised in September, warns about China and India's military ambitions.

China and India's growing military ambitions, matched by growing military spending, have the potential to destabilise the region with their military expansion," the report states.

"China, and potentially India have the potential to challenge US strategic dominance within their regions," the report states.

"Of particular concern is an increased likelihood for dispute escalation as a result of changes to the perceived balance of power with the real potential for a return to major combat operations involving states."

Rephrasing of documents suggests the white paper was toned down for public release to avoid causing offence in Beijing and New Delhi.

ANI