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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.
Ghost Fleet and the Causes of War
By Robert Farley
In fiction, states may not need clear reasons to go to war, but reality is different.
Pentagon Denounces 'Excessive Maritime Claims' in the South China Sea
By Shannon Tiezzi
China isn't the only country that comes under fire, but its capabilities make it the Pentagon's chief concern.
North Korea Is Mobilizing for War
By Franz-Stefan Gady
Kim Jong-un has rejected an apology from Seoul and ordered his army onto war footing.
Have Russia and China Signed a Cyber Nonaggression Pact?
By Elaine Korzak
Moscow and Beijing are advancing a vision of security in cyberspace that is markedly different from Western approaches.
China, South Korea Not Convinced by Abe's WW2 Anniversary Speech
By Shannon Tiezzi
China was blunt about its disappointment, while South Korea held out hope for better relations.
North Korea Threatens to Attack US Homeland
By Franz-Stefan Gady
Pyongyang promised dire consequences should a joint ROK-US military drill begin today.
A First: Japan Joins US-Philippines Humanitarian Drills in Subic Bay
By Ankit Panda
Japan continues to be drawn toward the South China Sea.
Should the United States Be Blamed for Japan’s Historical Revisionism?
By Franz-Stefan Gady
In hindsight, exonerating Japan’s Emperor was a grave mistake.
Imperial Japan's Last Floating Battleship
By Robert Farley
Just one Japanese battleship survived to see the end of the Pacific theater of the Second World War.
America Can’t Deter What It Can’t Define in Cyberspace
By Graham Webster
Retaliation without a clearly communicated principle won't deter anything in particular.
China's Military Trains for Taiwan Invasion With Mock-Ups
By Greg Austin
The new push for realism in exercises.
China Responds to Afghanistan's Bloodiest Day Since 2009
By Shannon Tiezzi
China's ambassador promised training and equipment for Afghan forces. With peace talks faltering, will that be enough?