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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.
Japan’s Largest Company Is ISIS’ Car Maker of Choice
By Franz-Stefan Gady
How did so many Toyota pickup trucks and SUVs end up in the hands of ISIS?
China, Japan, South Korea Eye Trilateral Finance Meeting
By Bochen Han
The meeting, in addition to discussing economic issues, would set the tone for the expected leaders' summit this fall.
Confirmed: Chinese Submarines Will Be Built in Karachi
By Ankit Panda
Four of China's eight Yuan-class submarines for Pakistan will be built in Karachi.
Top US General in Afghanistan: Afghan Security Forces 'Could Potentially Collapse'
By Franz-Stefan Gady
General John F. Campbell testified on the results of this year’s fighting season in front of the U.S. Congress.
Why the China-US Cyber Agreement May Prove Destructive
By Greg Austin
No easy solutions in U.S.–China cyber security.
Not So Fast: The TPP Might Be Good News for China
By Dingding Chen
It is still uncertain whether the TPP deal will significantly hurt China’s economy.
Experts: North Korea's Not Preparing for a Satellite Launch
By Shannon Tiezzi
Despite rumors, satellite imagery analyzed by 38 North suggests a launch is not going to happen on October 10.
Where Is the 'String of Pearls' in 2015?
By Benjamin David Baker
Chinese military installations in the Indian Ocean are still a possibility, not a certainty.
Chinese Coastguard Ships Approached Disputed Senkaku/Diaoyu Islands
By Ankit Panda
Plus, Russia-North Korea ties, a U.S. aircraft carrier switcheroo, Indian Ocean geopolitics, and more. Monday links.
US to Support Taiwan in South China Sea Per 2016 Defense Budget Bill
By Ankit Panda
U.S. support for Taiwan will extend into the South China Sea.
One Step Closer to US Freedom of Navigation Patrols in the South China Sea
By Ankit Panda
Washington's moving closer and closer to staging freedom of navigation patrols near China's artificial islands.
Everything You Need to Know About Russia's Intervention in Syria
By Benjamin David Baker
Russia has started military operations in Syria. Here's what we know so far.