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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 Unveils New South China Sea Lighthouse on Subi Reef
By Prashanth Parameswaran
Beijing holds a “completion ceremony” for a lighthouse on one of its artificial islands.
Why India's Upset About Obama's Post-Nuclear Security Summit Remarks
By Ankit Panda
U.S. President Barack Obama hints at the nuclear uncertainties between India and Pakistan, upsetting India.
Pakistan: Iran Has Nothing to Do With Indian Espionage
By Ankit Panda
Pakistan tries to control the damage after its army chief insinuated that Iran may have abetted Indian espionage.
South China Sea FONOP No. 3: Coming Soon?
By Ankit Panda
The U.S. Navy may conduct its third freedom of navigation operation in the South China Sea since China started building artificial islands.
China Blocks Indian Request to Ban Pathankot Attack Mastermind at UN
By Ankit Panda
Plus, the first AIIB loan recipient, China makes "non-war" activities abroad easier, and U.S.-India ties. Links.
On Nuclear Summit Sidelines, US, South Korea, and Japan Stand Against North Korea
By Ankit Panda
Obama, Park, and Abe emphasized their common position on North Korea's recent nuclear provocations.
Missiles and Signals in the Paracel Islands
By Steven Stashwick
SAMs on Woody Island don’t mean they’re headed for the Spratlys.
Why China Should Not Worry About Japan’s New Security Laws
By Franz-Stefan Gady
Little will change (for now).
Indonesia to Respond After South China Sea Case: Minister
By Prashanth Parameswaran
Jakarta likely to issue statement on much-anticipated Philippines v. China verdict.
Why China Might Seek to Occupy Scarborough Shoal
By Robert Klipper
Recent activity suggests China might build a base on Scarborough Shoal. Here's the strategic rationale.
Cuarteron Reef’s New Radar: The China Coast Guard’s Best New Toy?
By Steven Stashwick
Worry over the radar’s military implications should take a backseat to its civil uses.
Why Taiwan and China Agree on South China Sea Sovereignty
By Ryan Mitchell
To understand today’s conflicts, it is essential to look at the region’s colonial history.