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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.
Japan’s Izumo-Class Carrier to Visit Vietnam This Month
By Franz-Stefan Gady
As part of its Indo-Pacific deployment this year, the JS Izumo is slated to make a port call in Vietnam.
Japan Air Self-Defense Force: Pilot Error Likely Cause of F-35A Crash
By Franz-Stefan Gady
Japan’s air force says that “spatial disorientation” likely caused the pilot to crash his F-35A into the Pacific Ocean on April 9.
China Patrol Ships Sustain Presence Near Senkaku Islands: Report
By Ankit Panda
A 57-day continuous presence is the longest since the Japanese government purchased the disputed islands.
Where Is Britain’s Indo-Pacific Strategy?
By Li Jie Sheng
The lack of a British Indo-Pacific policy paper has an impact on U.K. engagement.
Russia Says US Cruiser Nearly Caused Collision in East China Sea
By Franz-Stefan Gady
The U.S. Navy has rejected the Russian characterization of the incident.
Japan’s Ministry of Defense Confirms Death of Missing F-35A Fighter Jet Pilot
By Franz-Stefan Gady
The Japanese minister of defense officially confirmed the death of a pilot who went missing with his F-35A on April 9.
Taiwan Confirms Request for US Tanks, Air Defense Systems
By Associated Press
China firmly opposes the new U.S. arms package to Taiwan.
North Korea Slams US Indo-Pacific Strategy Report Describing It as ‘Rogue State’
By Ankit Panda
Pyongyang takes aim at a recent U.S. strategy document.
Japan Stops Search for Crashed F-35A Stealth Fighter Jet
By Franz-Stefan Gady
The Japanese government has stopped searching for a F-35A fighter aircraft that crashed into the Pacific Ocean almost two months ago.
North Korea Remains in Compliance With Military Agreement: South Korean Defense Minister
By Ankit Panda
Recent ballistic missile launches have not altered Seoul’s interpretation of Pyongyang’s compliance with a military agreement.
The US War on Huawei: Predicting the Blowback
By Robert Farley
The U.S. decision to take on Huawei will have far-reaching implications.
China Faces a Stronger Japan
By Bonnie Girard
With Japan adding 105 more F-35 stealth fighters to its forces, is an arms race in store for the Asia-Pacific?