The term "Squad Grouping," recently seen in the news, refers to:

The correct answer is option 2.

In News

• The Philippines has expressed interest in expanding the Squad Grouping by including India and South Korea.

Key Points

• What is the Squad Grouping?
  • It is an informal multilateral military alliance between the United States, Japan, Australia, and the Philippines.
  • Aims to counter Chinese aggression in the South China Sea (SCS).
  • Focuses on joint military drills, intelligence sharing, and maritime security operations.
• Quad vs. Squad Grouping:
  • Quad (United States, Japan, Australia, and India):
    • Aims for a free, open, and stable Indo-Pacific.
    • Covers broader strategic cooperation beyond military security.
  • Squad (United States, Japan, Australia, and the Philippines):
    • Focuses specifically on the South China Sea and military security.
    • Has a more direct and unified approach in countering China's maritime assertiveness.
      • Hence, option 2 is correct.
• India’s Role in the Squad Grouping:
  • Not a formal member but shares common strategic objectives with the grouping.
  • Collaborates through joint military exercises and trilateral dialogues.
  • Maintains strategic autonomy while engaging in Indo-Pacific security initiatives.

Additional Information

• Why is the Squad Grouping important?
  • Strengthens regional deterrence against unilateral maritime claims.
  • Reinforces a rules-based international order in the Indo-Pacific.
  • Aligns with the U.S. Indo-Pacific strategy to counterbalance China's influence.
• Future Implications for India:
  • India’s potential inclusion could enhance its naval presence in the South China Sea.
  • Could further strengthen India's strategic partnerships with Quad and ASEAN nations.