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 defence and security issues in the Asia-Pacific.
October 27, 2019
2 Russian Strategic Bombers Conduct Night Flight Over Indian Ocean
By Franz-Stefan Gady
The two nuclear-capable aircraft were en route to South Africa as part of an effort to deepen military ties between the Russian and South African air forces.
October 25, 2019
The Battle of Leyte Gulf’s Limited Tactical Legacy
By Robert Farley
What lessons do we take from the Battle of Leyte Gulf?
October 24, 2019
Russia’s Northern Sea Route Faces Setbacks, Low Interest
By Steven Stashwick
Despite warming Arctic, competition among great powers remains cool.
October 23, 2019
Leyte Gulf: Lost in History?
By Robert Farley
The greatest naval battle of the modern era is under-remembered.
October 22, 2019
South Korea Scrambles Fighter Jets Against Russian Bombers
By Franz-Stefan Gady
Six Russian military aircraft were reportedly intercepted by South Korean fighter jets after they reportedly entered South Korea’s air space identification zone.
October 22, 2019
How a Chinese Invasion of Taiwan Could Destabilize Japan
By Travis Sanderson
In the event of an invasion, Taiwanese with the financial resources to do so would likely flee to Japan. Is Tokyo ready?
October 21, 2019
Malaysia’s Foreign Minister Calls for Navy Upgrades Amid Growing Tensions in the South China Sea
By Marcus Tantau
Could Malaysia’s South China Sea policy be shifting?
October 18, 2019
Turkey and Asia Anew: A Foreign Policy Initiative in Passing
By Ümit Alperen and Eyüp Ersoy
There are favorable conditions and arguments for Turkey to advance relations with Asia, if Ankara can overcome some existing roadblocks.
October 17, 2019
Kim Jong Un’s Horseback Stunt Is No Laughing Matter
By Ankit Panda
Kim Jong Un's latest photo-op might inspire laughs, but it's an important sign.
October 10, 2019
Following North Korean SLBM Test, Japan Conducts Missile Interceptor Drill in Tokyo
By Ankit Panda
The test was the first of its kind in six years.
October 09, 2019
European States on UN Security Council Issue Statement on North Korean Missile Tests
By Ankit Panda
The statement followed North Korea’s launch of the Pukguksong-3 submarine-launched ballistic missile.
October 08, 2019
Sea of Japan Collision Incident Highlights North Korean Illegal Fishing Activities
By Ankit Panda
A collision between a Japanese patrol boat and a North Korean fishing trawler highlights the risks.