EVALUATING THE ROLE AND EFFECTIVENESS OF CROSS-DOMAIN DETERRENCE IN INDIA AND PAKISTAN CONTEXT

Cross-domain deterrence (CDD), rooted in the historical evolution of strategic thinking, represents a contemporary approach to dissuading adversaries from hostile actions. It aims to influence adversaries’ decision-making by projecting overwhelming costs through retaliatory threats in one sphere to prevent hostile acts in another. This research paper investigates the conceptual evolution, role, and dynamics of CDD. It also looks at India and Pakistan’s approaches to deterrence within this strategic framework. Additionally, the paper evaluates capabilities, strategies, and deterrence postures in conventional, nuclear, airpower and cyber domains, highlighting sustained vertical and horizontal capability enhancements by both states for cross-domain operations during conflicts. The paper also offers actionable recommendations for Pakistan to further integrate the concept of CDD as a viable policy against an assertive adversary across different domains with effective response options.