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.
The Strategic Lessons of 1944's Battle of the Philippine Sea
By Robert Farley
1944’s Battle of Philippine Sea holds some interesting lessons for how we think about military power.
ASEAN and the Logic of Collective Action
By Walter C. Clemens, Jr.
To defend their interests against China, ASEAN members will have to overcome the temptation to free ride.
Coup Attempt Clears Way for Turkish-Russian Rapprochement
By Catherine Putz
Turkey has radically revised its position on why a Russian jet was shot down last year, much to Moscow's appreciation.
Has China Withdrawn A Long-Range Missile Battery From Woody Island?
By Franz-Stefan Gady
Satellite imagery indicates that a HQ-9 battery was taken off Woody Island on or around July 10.
China Urges Japan Not to Intervene in South China Sea
By Franz-Stefan Gady
China wants Japan to stay out of the South China Sea territorial disputes during an upcoming ASEAN meeting.
East Asia’s State-Led Search for Energy Security
By Michael Hart
Instead of collective efforts, states are increasingly taking unilateral steps to secure access to energy.
Pakistan-China Hold Joint Border Patrols Near Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir
By Prakhar Gupta
The joint patrol took place amidst much media attention on India’s tank deployment in Ladakh.
China's Secret Weapon in the South China Sea: Cyber Attacks
By Anni Piiparinen
After the South China Sea ruling, China throws another digital tantrum.
THAAD Could Spark a Dangerous Arms Race in East Asia
By Robert Cantelmo
THAAD could be the spark for a more muscular Chinese security policy.
How to Avoid War in the South China Sea
By Walter C. Clemens, Jr.
War between China and the United States is not inevitable.
Seeking a Solution to the South China Sea Disputes
By Linh Tong and Linh Tong
Pressuring China won't solve anything. Time for an alternative path.
Perry in Japan, War in the Pacific, and the Rise of China
By Steven Stashwick
The United States has spooked a rising Pacific power before.