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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.
Expect a Heavier US Presence in the South China Sea, But What Can It Achieve?
By Steven Stashwick
Administration objectives are still unclear, but maintaining the regional status quo may be the most realistic.
Is Pakistan Ready to Counter ISIS?
By Hammal Kashani
Pakistan's government has been slow to react to the presence of ISIS.
More FONOPs Coming Soon to the South China Sea?
By Ankit Panda
Trump is reportedly close to making his choices on the future of U.S. FONOPs in the South China Sea.
It Wasn't an ICBM, But North Korea's First Missile Test of 2017 Is a Big Deal
By Ankit Panda
North Korea's first missile test of 2017 represents important progress.
North Korea Launches Unknown Ballistic Missile Into Sea of Japan: What We Know
By Ankit Panda
The test is the first North Korean ballistic missile test in 2017 and the first of Donald Trump's presidency.
US, Chinese Military Aircraft See Close Encounter Over South China Sea
By Ankit Panda
The incident reportedly took place in airspace near Scarborough Shoal.
Afghanistan in 'Stalemate', Top US Commander Notes
By Ankit Panda
The best reports on the Trump age in foreign policy and Asia, New START vacillations, and more. Weekly links.
How the US Can Optimize Its Maritime Partnership Programs in Asia
By Robert Farley
A recent simulation offers insight for U.S. practice.
The Rohingya Insurgents: Myanmar Creates Its Own Frankenstein
By Aparupa Bhattacherjee
Harakah al-Yaqin, a new insurgent group in Rakhine state, is different than its predecessors.
How the South China Sea Could Heat Up Again in 2017
By Ankit Panda
The South China Sea could heat up as the year goes on.
Room for Maneuver in Australia's Naval Aviation Plans?
By Robert Farley
Australia's longstanding procurement plans may merit reconsideration.
The Chennai Oil Spill: A Lesson for India’s Maritime Agencies
By Abhijit Singh
The Chennai oil spill is a wake-up call: India needs a better response to maritime ecological disasters.