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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.
Afghanistan in 'Stalemate', Top US Commander Notes
By Ankit Panda
The best reports on the Trump age in foreign policy and Asia, New START vacillations, and more. Weekly links.
How the US Can Optimize Its Maritime Partnership Programs in Asia
By Robert Farley
A recent simulation offers insight for U.S. practice.
The Rohingya Insurgents: Myanmar Creates Its Own Frankenstein
By Aparupa Bhattacherjee
Harakah al-Yaqin, a new insurgent group in Rakhine state, is different than its predecessors.
How the South China Sea Could Heat Up Again in 2017
By Ankit Panda
The South China Sea could heat up as the year goes on.
Room for Maneuver in Australia's Naval Aviation Plans?
By Robert Farley
Australia's longstanding procurement plans may merit reconsideration.
The Chennai Oil Spill: A Lesson for India’s Maritime Agencies
By Abhijit Singh
The Chennai oil spill is a wake-up call: India needs a better response to maritime ecological disasters.
East China Sea: China Coast Guard Enters Disputed Waters Following Mattis' Japan Trip
By Ankit Panda
China's latest East China Sea incursion comes days after the U.S. defense secretary's visit to Tokyo.
Mattis Calms Nerves on US South China Sea Policy, But For How Long?
By Ankit Panda
Jim Mattis shows that not much has changed in U.S. South China Sea policy, but will that last?
Japanese Defense Minister: Military 'Will Not Be Sent' to the South China Sea Alongside US
By Ankit Panda
Inada reiterates Japan's standing policy to not involve its forces in the South China Sea beyond training missions.
Mattis: Senkakus Covered Under US-Japan Security Treaty
By Ankit Panda
Jim Mattis offers Japan reassurance on the disputed Senkaku Islands.
Perpetual Stalemate: China Can Neither Be Dislodged From the South China Sea Nor Control It
By Steven Stashwick
Former U.S., Australian officials say it’s “too late” and PLA assessment says China “cannot be optimistic”.
Steve Bannon and Prospects of a US-China War in the South China Sea
By Ankit Panda
Less than a year ago, Steve Bannon saw war in the South China Sea as "five to ten" years away. That matters.