The Shangri-La Dialogue highlighted global geopolitical shifts, with China-US rivalry and the West Asia war as key concerns. China and Japan debated rearmament, while the US softened its Taiwan stance, hinting at an "American Century" turning Asian. India's BrahMos missile sales to Vietnam and its designation as a "critical anchor" by the US were noted. The AUKUS triad announced aquatic drone development, possibly a response to the West Asia conflict. The author emphasizes India's need for strategic autonomy amidst a potentially choppier Indo-Pacific, where AI-run drones could impact trade, urging swift adaptation.