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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.
5.1 Magnitude Seismic Event Detected Near North Korean Nuclear Site, Signs of Possible Nuclear Test
By Ankit Panda
North Korea may have just tested a nuclear device.
China Defends Airstrip Construction in the South China Sea
By Shannon Tiezzi
After the first test landing on a new runway in the Spratly, China is highlighting the civilian uses for its airstrip.
What If the United States had Used the Bomb in Korea?
By Robert Farley
Cooler heads prevailed in the end, but nuclear use was a real possibility in the Korean War.
So You Think You Can Sell a Fourth Generation Carrier-Launched Fighter?
By Robert Farley
A big problem for selling carrier-based fighters is that there are simply too few carriers to go around.
Vietnam Protests as China Lands Civilian Aircraft on Newly Constructed Spratly Airstrip
By Ankit Panda
The Vietnamese foreign ministry described the move as a "serious infringement" of its sovereignty.
7 Events of Geopolitical Consequence to Anticipate in Asia in Early 2016
By Ankit Panda
2016 will kick off with a bang. Here's what you need to keep an eye on early in the new year.
Iran Deal Update: 11,000 Kilograms of Enriched Uranium Leave Iran for Russia
By Ankit Panda
Iran has complied with a major requirement of the July 2015 nuclear deal and shipped thousands of kilograms of uranium out of the country.
The Top 5 Accomplishments of Chinese Diplomacy in 2015
By Dingding Chen
2015 was a very good year for Chinese diplomacy. Expert 2016 to be more challenging.
India in 2015: A Foreign Policy Transformed
By Harsh V. Pant
2015 was a momentous year for Indian foreign policy, showing that leadership can truly matter.
Philippine 'Freedom Voyage' Lands on Disputed Island in South China Sea
By Shannon Tiezzi
Defying China and the Philippine government, an activist group lands 47 people on Thitu Island.
Tolkachev, Cold War Spycraft, and Modern Risks for China
By Robert Farley
China should be wary of a Tolkachev-esque figure eroding its strategic position vis-a-vis the United States.
Japan: China Sent Armed Coast Guard Vessel Near Disputed Islands
By Shannon Tiezzi
For the first time, China sent an armed vessel into disputed waters near the Senkaku/Diaoyu Islands.