Upheavals in the international system often cause states and leaders to reconsider old truths and try new paths. Sometimes this induces new alliances or other cooperative formats between states. Sweden and Finland's shift from military nonaligned states to NATO members is a recent example. This study analyses the conditions for the continued deepening of the Indo-Pacific cooperative format, the Quadrilateral Security Dialogue (Quad), between the United States, Australia, Japan, and India. Specifically, the study examines: What are the conditions for the Quad to evolve into an alliance? To answer the question, the study relies on modern literature on alliance formation. The study considers factors such as the balance of power, external threats, war plans, ideological solidarity, strategic culture, and states' perceptions of the international order. The results suggest that, after considering external factors, particularly the perception of China, the conditions seem ripe for the Quad to evolve into an alliance. Upon consideration of factors internal to Quad, especially ideological solidarity, strategic cultures, and their views on the international order, the conditions seem less favourable. Another important finding is that much appears to depend on how China develops in the coming years, particularly its economic and military strength, as well as its relationship with Russia. The factors considered in the study are subject to constant change, which justifies ongoing attention.