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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.
Crimea and the South China Sea: Russia and China Grasp for Support
By Casey Michel
Only a handful of countries side with both Moscow and Beijing on their respective controversial territorial claims.
A First: Chinese Naval Vessel Enters Senkaku Contiguous Zone in East China Sea
By Ankit Panda
Previously, China had only sent its coast guard into Japan's territorial sea and contiguous zone.
Australia, Russia, and a Rules-Based Order in Asia
By Anton Tsvetov
While Russia and Australia are far from being the closest of partners, they may share crucial interests in Asian security.
Indonesia to Blow Up 30 More Illegal Foreign Vessels
By Prashanth Parameswaran
The country’s fisheries minister says preparations are under way for another round of sinkings.
5 Takeaways on US-India Relations After Modi's Meeting With Obama
By Ankit Panda
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi meets Obama for the seventh--and possibly final--time.
Chinese Fighter Conducts 'Unsafe' Intercept of US Spy Plane in East China Sea
By Franz-Stefan Gady
The “unsafe” intercept occurred on Tuesday in international airspace over the East China Sea.
Setting the Record Straight on US-India South China Sea Patrols
By Jeff Smith
Was Washington simply being overzealous by proposing joint South China Sea patrols with India or is there more to the story?
What's Up With North Korea's Repeated Failed Musudan Launches?
By Ankit Panda
If at first you fail...
Top US Navy Officer Visits US Aircraft Carrier in South China Sea
By Franz-Stefan Gady
Amid growing tensions, the U.S. Navy’s highest ranking officer visited the John C. Stennis Strike Group last weekend.
How Do You Solve a Problem Like Taiwan?
By Xie Tao
Beijing must understand the roots of discontent in Taiwan if it wants to truly achieve unification.
French Defense Minister to Urge EU South China Sea Patrols
By Ankit Panda
Will the European Union become a more active player in the crowded waters of the South China Sea?
South China Sea: US Sounds Warning Against a Potential Chinese ADIZ
By Ankit Panda
U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry warned China against declaring a South China Sea ADIZ.