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Flashpoints
Will China’s military rival the United States’ in the Pacific? Will Japan abandon the constitutional fetters on its own military? How will India respond to the String of Pearls strategy? The Diplomat has put together a team of leading analysts to offer must-read, regular commentary on the big defense and security issues in the Asia-Pacific.
Japan Intercepts Russian Spy Plane
By Franz-Stefan Gady
Japanese fighters intercepted a Russian Navy maritime patrol aircraft over the Sea of Japan on January 17.
2019 Kicks Off With US and Allies Present in Indo-Pacific’s Disputed Waters
By Ankit Panda
The United States is networking with allies across the South and East China Seas.
Nuclear-Capable Tu-22M3 Strategic Bomber Crashes in Russia, Killing 3 Crew Members
By Franz-Stefan Gady
The Tu-22M3 bomber crashed while trying to land at an airbase in northern Russia.
Russia and Japan: No Closer to a Kuril Islands Breakthrough
By Ankit Panda
Abe and Putin’s latest meeting brings the two sides no closer to a breakthrough.
Japan Releases Audio of Alleged Radar Lock-On Incident With South Korean Warship
By Ankit Panda
Tokyo canceled further consultations with Seoul over the December 20 incident between the two sides.
The Top 5 Risks for US-China Relations in 2019
By Chen Dingding and Hu Junyang
2019 presents a range of challenge for the world’s most important bilateral relationship.
Two Stealth Bombers for the Chinese People’s Liberation Army Air Force?
By Robert Farley
Is China pursuing two separate stealth bombers?
Europe: A New Player in the Indo-Pacific
By Eva Pejsova
Can traditional regional powers find a place for a new, “odd” friend?
After Brexit: Global Britain Plots Course to Return to the Far East
By Carl Thayer
A post-Brexit Britain will double down on the Asia-Pacific.
Heads of US and Chinese Navy Meet in Beijing
By Steven Stashwick
Admirals discuss reducing risk in interactions between two navies at-sea.
France, Japan Look to Increase Indo-Pacific Maritime Cooperation
By Ankit Panda
France and Japan are looking to hold bilateral military exercises in the Indo-Pacific.
Russia Toughens Stance in Island Dispute with Japan
By Vladimir Isachenkov
Russia and Japan agree on the need to improve ties, but major differences remain.