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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.
Chinese Defense Ministry: Opposition to THAAD 'Will Definitely Not Stay On Words Only'
By Ankit Panda
Chinese rhetoric remains hotly in opposition to THAAD, but what else will Beijing do?
US State Department Employee Accused of Lying About Contacts With Chinese Spies
By Ankit Panda
The U.S. Federal Bureau of Investigation has charged a State Department employee with lying about contacts with Chinese spies.
Will Hybrid Warfare Protect America’s Interests in the South China Sea?
By Tobias Burgers & Scott N. Romaniuk
The pros and cons of increasing the use of unmanned vehicles in the South China Sea.
Nuclear South Asia and Coming to Terms With 'No First-Use' With Indian Characteristics
By Ankit Panda
Let's make one thing clear: India can explore a pre-emptive first strike without changing its 2003 nuclear doctrine.
Deterring Pyongyang: US, South Korea Conclude Military Exercise
By Franz-Stefan Gady
The United States and South Korea finished the 2017 iteration of their annual Foal Eagle exercise on March 23.
US Bomber Receives Chinese Warning Over East China Sea Skies
By Ankit Panda
A U.S. B-1B Lancer was warned after entering China's air defense identification zone (ADIZ) over the East China Sea.
Pakistan’s (Non-Nuclear) Plan to Counter ‘Cold Start’
By Meenakshi Sood
Tactical nuclear weapons get most of the attention, but Islamabad is also building up conventional capabilities.
Japan, ROK, US Combat Aircraft Hold Military Drill
By Franz-Stefan Gady
A U.S. Air Force bomber conducted training missions with Japanese and South Korean fighter jets this week.
What's the Big Deal About These US-South Korea Military Exercises?
By Damen Cook
A closer look at the costs and benefits of the annual Foal Eagle-Key Resolve exercises.
What a 1925 Novel Can Teach Us About a Possible US-China War
By Ben Lamont
The Great Pacific War reveals the insights (and mistakes) that come with discussing a future war.
Will a New Washington Naval Treaty Stop the South China Sea Arms Race?
By Robert Farley
A contemporary take on the Washington Naval Treaty system has limitations in the South China Sea.
China Expands Its Spying Against Taiwan
By Aaron Jensen
Espionage operations now extend to students, rather than focusing only on retired officials.