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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.
China and Russia to Hold First Computer-Enabled Missile Defense Exercise in May
By Franz-Stefan Gady
The drill is not intended against a third party, according to the Russian Ministry of Defense.
Russia Intercepts US Aircraft (Maybe) Spying on Moscow’s Newest Ballistic Missile Sub
By Franz-Stefan Gady
A Russian MiG-31 intercepted a U.S. Navy P-8 Maritime patrol aircraft in Northeast Asia on April 21.
Managing The South China Sea: Where Policy Meets Science
By James Borton
The marriage of policy and science is essential to navigating these waters.
South China Sea: Itu Aba Might Be Key to Philippines v. China
By John Ford
Tiny island will determine the true winner in South China Sea lawfare.
Is it Obvious Why India Cares About Nuclear Weapons?
By Robert Farley
Was India looking for prestige? Was it looking for security? What about both?
Are Pakistan's Nuclear Assets Under Threat?
By Shahzeb Ali Rathore
Pakistan is at risk from nuclear terrorism -- but not in the way you think.
China and Russia to Increase Number of Military Exercises in 2016
By Franz-Stefan Gady
The Chinese and Russian defense ministers agreed to hold more joint military drills in 2016 than in previous years.
The US Cancelled a Scheduled FONOP in the South China Sea. What Now?
By Ankit Panda
Instead of a FONOP, Washington chose to conduct fly-overs near Scarborough Shoal. What are the ramifications?
Fear and Honor: The Other Side of US-China 'Thucydides Trap'
By Dingding Chen
China's "assertiveness" is much discussed. What about the role of U.S. fear?
India: Walking the Line Between China and the United States?
By Mayuri Mukherjee
In approaching the United States, how concerned should India be about its ties with China?
Could Restarting F-22 Raptor Production Ever Be a Good Idea?
By Robert Farley
Is there a good reason to restart production of the F-22? Without export prospects, maybe not.
Tailored Deterrence: Influencing North Korean Decision-Making
By Michael Raska
Defense planners have been rethinking strategies for responding to threats posed by North Korea.