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.
Leveraging the Amphibious Advantage in the Asia Pacific
By Robert Farley
Will amphibious platforms make a difference in the Asia-Pacific?
Russia’s Pacific Fleet to Hold ‘Dozens of Large-Scale Exercises’ This Summer
By Franz-Stefan Gady
The summer training period for Russia’s Pacific Fleet officially kicked off this week.
What Does the Nine-Dash Line Actually Mean?
By Marina Tsirbas
China could clarify what the nine-dash line means -- and reduce tensions -- without giving away any of its territorial claims.
Building Golden Bridges in the South China Sea
By David A. Welch
The world should respond with care to the upcoming tribunal ruling.
South China Sea: China's Surveillance Drones Make it to Woody Island
By Ankit Panda
China's BZK-005 surveillance drone has been spotted on Woody Island. Is it there to stay?
South China Sea Deployment: Indian Stealth Warships Visit Vietnam
By Franz-Stefan Gady
Two Indian warships have arrived at Cam Ranh Bay on a four day port visit.
Actually, China Is Not Building a 'Great Wall of Self-Isolation'
By Dingding Chen
On the contrary, China’s rise in Asia poses both opportunities and challenges to the region.
South China Sea: Indonesian Navy Fires at and Arrests Chinese Fishermen
By Ankit Panda
Indonesia and China could be on the verge of another diplomatic stand-off over the Natuna Islands.
Obama’s Visit to Vietnam: A Turning Point?
By Carl Thayer
The visit did result in the lifting of the arms embargo, but the context is far wider.
With Arms Embargo Lifted, What's On Vietnam's Shopping List?
By Robert Farley
With the arms embargo finally lifted, what might Vietnam look to purchase?
Prime Minister: Vietnam Won’t Pursue Military Buildup in the South China Sea
By Franz-Stefan Gady
Vietnamese Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc said that Vietnam will not pursue a military buildup in the South China.
5 Navy Officers Sentenced to Death in Pakistan for Trying to Attack US Warship
By Franz-Stefan Gady
The five officers allegedly tried to steal a Pakistani warship to attack a U.S. naval vessel.