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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.
Is the Hunger Challenge in Asia-Pacific Going Unnoticed?
By Meha Pumbay
While a UN report gives alarming findings about hunger in Asia, the issue is still a low priority to many states.
It's Official: Xi Jinping Breaks His Non-Militarization Pledge in the Spratlys
By Ankit Panda
In China's own words, Beijing is now building what it sees as "necessary military facilities" in the South China Sea.
India to Test Fire Nuclear Missile Capable of Hitting China
By Franz-Stefan Gady
India is reportedly preparing to test-launch the nuclear-capable Agni-V ICBM in late December or early January.
US Pacific Commander: China Can't Shut off South China Sea
By Ankit Panda
Admiral Harry Harris of U.S. Pacific Command outlined regional priorities for the United States.
4 Tips for US President-Elect Trump’s China Policy
By Dingding Chen
Maintaining strategic stability in U.S.-China relations is critical for Trump’s domestic agenda..
India, Russia to Hold Joint Naval Exercise
By Franz-Stefan Gady
The joint Indo-Russian naval drill is scheduled to kick off on December 14.
Just How Wide-Reaching Are China's Economic Espionage Efforts?
By Robert Farley
Chinese economic espionage was never limited to just the United States or just one industry.
Imperial Japan's Southeast Asia Offensive in Retrospective
By Robert Farley
Imperial Japan's Southeast Asia campaign is among the most successful series of military operations ever conducted.
China Protests Japan Fighter Scramble Over Miyako Strait Exercise
By Ankit Panda
Chinese military aircraft return to the Miyako Strait.
Trump: 'I Don't Know Why' US Is Bound by 'One China' Policy
By Ankit Panda
The U.S. president-elect's latest remarks suggest that his administration could review the "one China" policy.
Asia Is in the Grip of a Transnational Crime Crisis
By Roderic Broadhurst
Yet governments are looking the other way.
Despite Rising Violence, Some Promising Trends in Afghanistan
By Adam Wunische
A recent survey shows that, while many problems persist in Afghanistan, there are some positive developments.