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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.
Perry in Japan, War in the Pacific, and the Rise of China
By Steven Stashwick
The United States has spooked a rising Pacific power before.
This Naval Battle Could Have Changed the Course of WW2
By Ben Ho Wan Beng
If the Battle of the Philippine Sea had played out differently, Japan's navy might have been decimated by June 1944.
Globalization With Asian Characteristics
By Chietigj Bajpaee
As the West retrenches into populism and nationalism, can Asia take up the mantle of global cooperation?
Philippines Rejects Conditional Talks With China on South China Sea
By Prashanth Parameswaran
Foreign secretary says Beijing had insisted that Manila set aside the tribunal decision.
Top Chinese Admiral: China Ready to Counter ‘Any Aggression’ in South China Sea
By Franz-Stefan Gady
The admiral’s remarks come amidst a three-day visit by the U.S. Navy’s chief of naval operations to China.
India Deploys T-72 Tanks in Ladakh to Counter China’s Military Build-up
By Prakhar Gupta
The Indian Army appears to have moved over 100 tanks to its disputed border with China.
China Flies 'Strategic' Bomber Over Disputed Feature in South China Sea
By Franz-Stefan Gady
It remains unclear whether the flight over Scarborough Shoal occurred before or after the July 12 PCA verdict.
China Has Much to Gain From the South China Sea Ruling
By Mark E. Rosen
The decision regarding Itu Aba allows China to challenge excessive EEZs claimed by Japan, the U.S., France, and others.
Stopping North Korean Missiles: An Alternative to THAAD
By Sukjoon Yoon
Contain North Korean ICBM threats with a sea-based Ballistic Missile Defense, not with THAAD.
Could It Make Sense for India to Opt for a Russian Nuclear Aircraft Carrier?
By Robert Farley
India can keep an open mind, but the Russian carrier option probably won't be attractive.
Interview: The South China Sea Ruling
By Roncevert Ganan Almond
International law expert Roncevert Ganan Almond on the recent ruling by the Permanent Court of Arbitration.
The South China Sea Ruling: Who Really Won?
By Chengxin Pan
The legal blow might actually lead China to harden its position.