Richard Weitz

The Pentagon’s new report on China’s military underscores the rapid progress it is making. But what exactly is this build-up for?

The Jeju Island base isn’t about containing China. It’s about protecting South Korea and others from an increasingly erratic North Korea.

Critics argue that China’s failure to contribute troops to Iraq and Afghanistan mean it’s reaping the economic rewards without the security pain. It’s not so simple.

August 1 is Army Day in China. Recent improvements in Sino-US military ties are welcome, but conflicting interests mean tensions might still be inevitable.

Concern about US security guarantees has prompted debate in South Korea over the possibility of redeploying US tactical nuclear weapons – or building some themselves.

Asia is bound to be a focus for Leon Panetta as US defence secretary. With China’s rise, India and Pakistan squabbling and a belligerent North Korea, there’s plenty to do.

Relations between the US and South Korea have been steadily warming. The problem is, it could push North Korea into even worse behaviour.

The 10th anniversary of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation failed to come up with anything new. It’s members kind of like it that way.

Defence ties between the US and China have improved dramatically in the past year. But have they hit their limits?

Despite its growing military and economic power, Russia doesn’t see China as a threat. The potential chaos in Central Asia is another matter.

Are economics trumping non-proliferation concerns for Chinese officials dealing with Iran and North Korea? A new UN report suggests maybe.

Beijing’s close ties with Islamabad don’t have to be a source for concern. It’s in China’s interests to press for reforms to stabilize Pakistan.