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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.
India’s Quiet Support of the Philippines in the South China Sea
By Shambhu Sajith and Aswani RS
India is taking a greater interest in the China-Philippines maritime dispute, but is content to play “second fiddle” as an extra-regional actor.
Navigating South China Sea Security in 2024
By Sophie Wushuang Yi
A look back at the strategic dynamics of the maritime disputes in 2023, and what we might expect in the new year.
Can 2024 Bring a New Breakthrough in China-India Relations?
By Ivan Lidarev
There was no thaw, but 2023 brought some promising stabilization in the relationship between Beijing and New Delhi.
Women Bear the Brunt of Asia’s Climate Failures
By Gabriela Fernando and Samanthi Gunawardana
What does the future hold for the millions of women left to work in Asia's agriculture sector battling a climate in collapse?
Sino-Indian Border Infrastructure in the Indian Defense Ministry’s Year End Review
By Rajeswari Pillai Rajagopalan
Given the state of bilateral relations between India and China, New Delhi is doubling down on its efforts regarding strategic border infrastructure.
India’s Space Program in 2023: Taking Stock
By Namrata Goswami
2023 witnessed some rather game-changing updates to India’s space vision.
The China-Philippines South China Sea Face-Off Requires Restraint
By Sarang Shidore
The Philippines and the U.S. are on solid legal ground, but what is lawful is not always wise.
Another Launch for China’s Reusable Space Plane
By Rajeswari Pillai Rajagopalan
In some ways, China’s Shenlong is similar to the U.S. X-37B reusable space plane, whose planned operations and capabilities have similarly remained unclear.
What’s Important About the Indian Parliament Security Breach
By Rajeswari Pillai Rajagopalan
Despite a history of terrorist attacks and other security concerns, the culture of security appears to be still wanting when it comes to critical infrastructure.
The Use and Misuse of History: What Should We Learn From the Korean War?
By (Clark) Aoqi Wu
Drawing the wrong lessons from the end of the Korean War hinders a useful assessment of deterrence in the original Cold War.
Taiwan’s Election Is Not a Turning Point for US Policy
By Robert Sutter
Regardless of who wins in January 2024, we can expect continuity in U.S. policy toward Taiwan and China.
Nauru and Samoa Join Fossil Fuel Treaty Amid Fierce Debate at COP28
By Sacha Shaw
When it comes to phasing out fossil fuels, the most at-risk countries are taking matters into their own hands rather than waiting on the lagging COP process.