Blog
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.
Philippines to Deepen China Talks Despite South China Sea Differences
By Prashanth Parameswaran
The foreign secretary says Manila will move forward with official talks with Beijing.
The Danger of Letting China Set the Pace in the South China Sea
By Steven Stashwick
ASEAN-China Code of Conduct will languish as long as China sets the pace in the South China Sea.
India and US Hold Joint Military Exercise Near Chinese Border
By Franz-Stefan Gady
The annual military drill focuses on counterinsurgency and counterterrorism operations.
Is the 'Rules Based Order' Worth Keeping Up?
By Robert Farley
How large are the stakes for the United States in sustaining the current global order?
With North Korea, Try More Economic Isolation, Less Diplomatic Isolation
By Peter Harrell
As the world steps up economic pressure, sanctions must be matched by diplomatic engagement.
Nepal's Upcoming 'Reset' With India
By Ankit Panda
Nepal's new prime minister is enthusiastic about restoring ties with India back to normal.
Russia and Pakistan to Hold First Ever Military Exercise
By Franz-Stefan Gady
The joint drill will involve approximately 200 military personnel from the two sides. The rest remains a mystery.
China's Air Force Revisits the Bashi Channel. Here's Why That Matters
By Ankit Panda
The Bashi Channel is seldom discussed, but bears great strategic relevance for the People's Liberation Army.
2016 Fighting Season in Afghanistan: Taliban Target Senior Ranks
By Shawn Snow
A senior Afghan police chief, General Zarawar Zahid, was killed in an IED blast on September 11.
How the Rules-Based Order Really Works in Asia
By Robert Farley
Successful cooperation against common challenges requires regional inclusion.
North Korea's 5th Nuclear Test Sends a Clear Message, But Who's Listening?
By Ankit Panda
North Korea is getting to the point where it'll have nuclear-tipped ballistic missiles ready to fly.
Chinese, Russian Navies to Hold 8 Days of Naval Exercises in the South China Sea
By Ankit Panda
Beijing and Moscow will hold the first-ever South China Sea iteration of their Joint Sea exercises.