The Diplomat | Author
James R. Holmes
James R. Holmes is a defense analyst for The Diplomat and a professor of strategy at the U.S. Naval War College where he specializes in U.S., Chinese and Indian maritime strategy and U.S. diplomatic and military history.
He is co-author of Red Star over the Pacific, an Atlantic Monthly Best Foreign Affairs Book for 2010 and a former US Navy surface warfare officer.
The views voiced here are his alone.
July 25, 2012
The Land, The Sea, and History
What does history tell us about who becomes a land-based power or commands the high seas?
July 16, 2012
From Russia With Love? China vs. India Carrier Showdown
Question: Which nation’s Russian-built carrier is better? China or India? James Holmes explains.
July 09, 2012
How Europe Can Support the ‘Pivot’
As America focuses on the ‘Indo-Pacific’, Europe has a vital role to play, James Holmes argues.
July 03, 2012
America's 'Great Green Fleet'
Dr. James Holmes on what the U.S. Navy’s biofuels-propelled fleet reminds us about history.
June 26, 2012
U.S. Navy’s Quantity Problem
U.S. naval planners may be tempted to believe technology trumps numbers. It doesn’t always.
June 22, 2012
China’s Monroe Doctrine
Despite claims to the contrary, China’s policy in the near seas today bears scant resemblance to the Monroe Doctrine. But its application still holds lessons for China.
May 21, 2012
China’s Small Stick Diplomacy
China’s combination of fishing boats, unarmed law-enforcement ships, and military power allows Beijing to act as a provocateur – and to use small stick diplomacy.
April 30, 2012
Taiwan’s Navy Gets Stealthy
News that Taiwan is set to get some stealthy fast patrol boats is welcome. But without some daring personnel, it might come to nothing.
April 26, 2012
Can U.S. "Manage" Other Nations?
The U.S. must be careful in the language it uses with other nations. But whatever you call it, management is OK.
April 23, 2012
Beating "Voldemort Syndrome"
Frank talk about U.S. purpose and power is more likely to deter than provoke conflict with China. Admitting Beijing could be an adversary, and preparing accordingly, is the way forward.
April 04, 2012
Balboa Park and the Panama Canal
San Diego’s Balboa Park offers a window on a revolution in American geographical and maritime thinking.
March 28, 2012
Taking the Piracy Fight Ashore
A top Chinese general has suggested a new approach to fighting piracy in Somalia. Caution is warranted.