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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.
The Trump Administration Needs a Clear South China Sea Policy
By Ankit Panda
The first mention of the South China Sea by the new U.S. administration in office leaves more questions than it answers.
China's Maritime Great Wall in the South and East China Seas
By Samir Tata
China is building a maritime cordon sanitaire.
US, India Sharing Information on Chinese Submarines. Here's Why That Matters
By Ankit Panda
The commander of U.S. Pacific Command confirms that the two countries are peering at Chinese submarines in the Indian Ocean.
International Law Is Under Siege in the South China Sea
By Douglas Gates
China is the latest to flout international law, but the United States paved the way.
What Does China's 'New Asian Security Concept' Mean for the US?
By David C. McCaughrin
A closer look at China's vision for remaking Asian security, and what the United States can do about it.
Evaluating the US-China Cybersecurity Agreement, Part 3
By Gary Brown and Christopher D. Yung
Over a year later, what impact has the 2015 cyber agreement had on U.S.-China relations?
Evaluating the US-China Cybersecurity Agreement, Part 2: China’s Take on Cyberspace and Cybersecurity
By Gary Brown and Christopher D. Yung
China's cyber activities (including attacks) closely mirror how it conceives of cyberspace.
Is North Korea About to Welcome Donald Trump Into Office With Its First-Ever ICBM Flight Test?
By Ankit Panda
A North Korean intercontinental ballistic missile test in early 2017 looks increasingly likely, but there's a twist.
Evaluating the US-China Cybersecurity Agreement, Part 1: The US Approach to Cyberspace
By Gary Brown and Christopher D. Yung
How Washington approaches cyberspace and its 2015 cybersecurity agreement with China.
Trump and Afghanistan: The Unwelcome Obligation
By Martin Fleischer and Charles Elkins
When Donald Trump takes office on January 20, he will inherit an immensely problematic country and region.
India Should Tread Carefully on Missile Sale to Vietnam
By K.S. Venkatachalam
It's important for India not to go out of its way to involve itself in China's maritime disputes.
Japan Pledges 6 New Patrol Boats for Vietnam Coast Guard
By Ankit Panda
In Hanoi, Shinzo Abe reiterates that Japan will sell Vietnam six new patrol boats.