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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.
Americans Are Worried About China, But the Reasons Why Might Surprise You
By Ankit Panda
Americans see a range of problems in U.S.-China relations--some with good reason, others less so.
Japan Wary of Rising Russia Threat: Ex-Defense Minister
By Prashanth Parameswaran
Former official notes Tokyo’s concern about growing provocations from Moscow.
How China and India’s Noisy Nuclear Subs Contribute to Instability in Asia
By Franz-Stefan Gady
Beijing and New Delhi’s ballistic missile subs fail to provide an adequate sea-based nuclear deterrent.
China or Iran: Who Is the Bigger Threat to U.S. Airpower?
By Franz-Stefan Gady
A new comparative analysis sheds light on the threat Tehran’s ballistic missile force poses to U.S. airbases.
Pakistan Uses Indigenous Drone to Strike Terrorists
By Ankit Panda
The Pakistani military has used an indigenously designed drone to strike terrorists on its own soil.
Wondering Why China Held Its Parade? Here Are 5 Things Beijing Accomplished.
By Dingding Chen
There are both internal and external benefits of the military parade, despite some international concerns.
Russia and China in the Arctic: Is the US Facing an Icebreaker Gap?
By Franz-Stefan Gady
Among other things, Russia will introduce the design for a new super-nuclear icebreaker by the end of 2015.
Philippines Slams China Over ‘Deceitful Rhetoric’ on South China Sea
By Franz-Stefan Gady
Philippine officials renew their attack on China's alleged aggression in disputed waters.
North Korea Flew a Spy Drone Across the DMZ
By Franz-Stefan Gady
Amidst last month’s tensions, Pyongyang repeatedly dispatched an UAV to observe South Korean troop movements.
China, Japan, South Korea to Hold Long-Delayed Trilateral Summit
By Shannon Tiezzi
Shinzo Abe is also expected to have his first official bilateral summit with Park Geun-hye.
Why Did Imperial Japan Surrender on the USS Missouri?
By Robert Farley
The choice of the USS Missouri was no accident.
Beijing: Xi Jinping Slams Japanese Aggression in Military Parade Speech
By Franz-Stefan Gady
The Chinese president engaged in anti-Japanese rhetoric in a speech commemorating the end of the Second World War.