A Realist Perspective on Technological Disruption: Emerging Technologies and The Security Dilemma in South Asia

Abstract

This paper reviews the effects of emerging technologies on the situation of security dilemma in South Asia with special reference to the parameters of India-Pakistan strategic rivalry and the dynamics of military modernization. The long-standing enmity between the countries in South Asia between India and Pakistan has escalated to cyber power, artificial intelligence, missile defense and drones. Such innovations, according to a Realist perspective, change the balance of power and perceptions of threat, but do not provide stability. This qualitative research uses Realist theory on policy documents, strategy doctrines, and secondary materials to evaluate the change in the behavior of the security into the region. The results show that new technologies increase doubt, speed up weaponry rivalry and shorten reaction periods. Dual-use systems obscure the offensive-defensive lines, making things even more distorted. Balancing strategies and strategic signaling is also supported by technological asymmetries. Therefore, there is a weakening of deterrence stability. There must be confidence-building measures in cyber and AI.