This dissertation examines how U.S. defence policy in the Indian Ocean evolved in response to three crises that occurred in the region during the Carter administration's time in office. The Ogaden War, the Iranian Revolution and Hostage Crises, and the Soviet invasion of Afghanistan led to a fundamental reappraisal of U.S. security policy towards the Indian Ocean

In response to these events, considerable improvements were made in developing an overriding command structure and military capability in support of U.S. policy throughout the Indian Ocean region. As a result, the Indian Ocean emerged from its traditional role as an area of marginal security interest to the U.S. and came to the forefront of U.S. strategic policy

The security measures implemented by the Carter administration in the Indian Ocean form the basis of the security architecture used to support current U.S. military operations in the Persian Gulf