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.
North Korea Could Be Preparing For Another West Coast Musudan Test
By Ankit Panda
Pyongyang is likely gearing up for another Musudan test launch -- possibly its ninth this year.
How to Sell Arms to Taiwan
By Dan Altman
The U.S. can sell arms to Taiwan, but it should adopt salami tactics to avoid alarming China.
Philippines’ Duterte to Visit Malaysia, With Security High on Agenda
By Prashanth Parameswaran
A look at what both sides will discuss during the president’s next trip.
US and Japan to Hold Amphibious Assault Drills in Northwestern Pacific
By Franz-Stefan Gady
A joint U.S.-Japan military exercise will be held off Guam and Tinian in early November.
Taliban Set-Backs Open Door to Peace Negotiations
By Shawn Snow
A former senior aide to Mullah Omar has called on the Taliban to negotiate with the Afghan government.
South China Sea: What Exactly Has Changed At Scarborough Shoal?
By Ankit Panda
Scarborough Shoal remains under the watch of the China Coast Guard, but Philippine fishermen have access once again.
Indian Army 'Fire Assault' Hits Pakistan Military Outposts
By Ankit Panda
Tensions between India and Pakistan in Kashmir continue to intensify.
Are Indonesia and Australia Mulling South China Sea Joint Patrols?
By Prashanth Parameswaran
Indonesia’s defense minister says both sides could soon make this a reality.
Let's Talk About the Chinese Navy's Type 055 Destroyer
By Robert Farley
What does the People's Liberation Army Navy have in store for the Type 055?
South China Sea: Philippine Fishermen Gain Access to Scarborough Shoal After Duterte's China Trip
By Ankit Panda
Is China extending an olive branch to the Philippines ahead of bilateral talks?
China Accuses Japan of Endangering its Military Aircraft
By Franz-Stefan Gady
Beijing slammed Japan’s air force for scrambling jets and locking radars on to Chinese military aircraft.