Blog
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.
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.
Why Is the PLAN Near Alaska?
By Ankit Panda
PLAN vessels have been spotted for the first time in the Bering Sea, off the coast of Alaska.
6 Reasons China Would Invade Taiwan
By Shannon Tiezzi
A report from Taiwan's Ministry of National Defense outlines why -- and how -- the PLA would invade Taiwan.
US: North Korea Stands ‘No Chance’ in Defeating South
By Franz-Stefan Gady
In a televised interview U.S. Defense Secretary Ashton Carter restated the obvious when discussing recent tensions.
Sino-US Tensions in Cyberspace: All China’s Fault?
By Greg Austin
China is not the only party responsible for bilateral strife in cyber relations.