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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.
How Will Trump Handle Intellectual Property Disputes With China?
By Robert Farley
The Trump administration will face unique challenges in reining in intellectual property abuses by China.
US Carrier Strike Group Arrives in the South China Sea
By Ankit Panda
The U.S. Navy now has two supercarriers deployed to the Asia-Pacific region.
Would China Use Nuclear Weapons in a War With Taiwan?
By Ben Lowsen
China insists on "No First Use" of nukes, but the threat remains.
How the Comfort Women Settlement Can Boost Japan-ROK Ties
By Ki Suh Jung
Getting past the issue would pave the way for greater collaboration against urgent security threats.
Hybrid Warriors: China’s Unmanned, Guerrilla-Style Warfare in Asia’s Littorals
By Tobias Burgers & Scott N. Romaniuk
Expect China to add drones – little grey (un)men – to its arsenal of hybrid warfare tactics in the South China Sea.
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.