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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.
It's Been 120 Days Since the Last South China Sea FONOP. So What?
By Ankit Panda
If the United States wants FONOPs to work, they should ideally be kept to a regular schedule.
Countering THAAD: North Korea Test Fires Three Nuclear-Capable Ballistic Missiles
By Franz-Stefan Gady
The missiles hit the water inside Japan’s air defense identification zone in the East China Sea.
Little Progress on THAAD as Park, Xi Meet on G20 Sidelines
By Ankit Panda
Xi and Park reiterated their views on THAAD, but didn't appear to forge a path toward understanding.
Kuril Islands Dispute: Putin and Abe Once Again Get Serious About Finding a Solution
By Ankit Panda
Putin is signaling that he could be open to a compromise on the dispute, but there needs to be trust first.
With the Hangzhou G20, China Demonstrates Its Global Leadership Credentials
By Dingding Chen
It is never easy to be a global leader, but China is determined to become one.
China's Non-Chinese Approach to the South China Sea
By Patrik K. Meyer
Why has China undertaken such a radical departure in its foreign policy approach, as regards the South China Sea?
Russia, Mongolia Hold Joint Military Exercise
By Franz-Stefan Gady
The Selenga 2016 military drill kicked off on August 30 and will last until September 7.
10 Years of Fighting Pirates in Asia
By Prakash Panneerselvam
As ReCAAP marks its 10th anniversary, a look back at the achievements.
India, China, and the Future of Global Governance
By B. R. Deepak
India and China will need to work together to increase their roles in the international system.
How Flexible Are US Counter-A2/AD Systems Anyway?
By Robert Farley
Let's think about some of the procurement options available to Washington.
Russia to Send Anti-Submarine Warfare Destroyers to South China Sea
By Franz-Stefan Gady
China and Russia will hold a joint naval drill in the South China Sea in September.
Iran Deploys New Russian Air Defense System Around Nuclear Site
By Franz-Stefan Gady
Air defenses around the Fordow uranium enrichment facility have purportedly been reinforced by Russian SAMs.