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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.
Unplanned Encounters in the South China Sea: Under Control?
By Ankit Panda
There's some good news in the South China Sea, despite rising tensions over disputed maritime claims.
Taiwan's Dilemmas and Challenges After the 2016 Election
By Dingding Chen
Tsai Ing-wen may have won the election, but she faces a range of important challenges ahead.
Beijing 'Lost' the Sino-Soviet Split, But That Didn't Matter in the End
By Robert Farley
The ideological struggle driving the Sino-Soviet split stopped mattering in the end.
Attack on University in Pakistan Leaves at Least 21 Dead
By Franz-Stefan Gady
Gunmen stormed a college campus in Pakistan’s Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province killing students and faculty members.
Indian Ocean: India Deploys New Sub-Killer Planes to Counter Chinese Subs
By Franz-Stefan Gady
Two Poseidon 8I aircraft have recently been dispatched to the strategically-located Andaman and Nicobar archipelago.
It's Official: Nuclear-Related Sanctions Are Lifted on Iran, Nuclear Deal Implemented
By Ankit Panda
With the IAEA certifying Iran's compliance with technical constraints on its nuclear program, the nuclear deal is implemented.
Coast Guards of India and Japan Conclude Naval Exercise
By Ankit Panda
Plus, Chinese drones, South China Sea investment opportunities, and more. Weekend links.
A Coming Shift in Vietnamese Military Aviation?
By Robert Farley
Vietnam's People’s Air Force (VPAF) could begin flying Western fighters. Here's why that matters.
Satellite Imagery Shows Ecocide in the South China Sea
By Victor Robert Lee
Poaching of giant clam shells is causing massive scarring of coral reefs.
Philippines Pushes for Joint Naval Patrols With US in South China Sea
By Franz-Stefan Gady
Manila pushed for a “more collaborative presence” in the South China during bilateral consultations in Washington D.C.
How We Know North Korea's Latest SLBM Test Was a Likely Dud
By Ankit Panda
Analysis of North Korean video footage suggests a less-impressive submarine-launched ballistic missile test than Kim Jong-un would like.
Islamic State Eyes Asia Base in 2016 in Philippines, Indonesia: Expert
By Prashanth Parameswaran
Group looking to declare at least one foothold in the region this year.