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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.
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.
No China Compromise on South China Sea After Philippines Case: Top Chinese Expert
By Prashanth Parameswaran
One of the country’s leading experts suggests there is little reason to expect that Beijing will moderate its stance.
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.