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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.
Philippines Tries to Keep South China Sea Outpost Afloat
By Shannon Tiezzi
The Philippines is doing repair work on a ground ship that hosts a small contingent of Philippine soldiers.
Forecasting the Future of US-China Competition
By Dr. Patrick Cronin
A snapshot of Washington views on the future of the US-China relationship.
In the Philippines' South China Sea Case, Is International Law on Trial?
By Shannon Tiezzi
The Philippines and China have conflicting opinions on the symbolism of the case itself.
8 Developments in US-Vietnam Relations Show Emerging Partnership
By Carl Thayer
US-Vietnam relations are neither an alliance nor a strategic partnership yet.
China Steps Up Harassment of Vietnamese Fishermen
By Ankit Panda
Recent incidents highlight the return of low-level coercion against Vietnamese fishermen in disputed waters.
America's Aircraft Carrier Challenge
By Robert Farley
The United States may operate 10 carriers, but it doesn't do so at the same time.
Beijing’s Games in the Taiwan Strait
By Jakub Piasecki
Tensions rise as Taipei protests Beijing’s new national security law in the run-up to Taiwan’s 2016 election.
Who Owns What in the South China Sea?
By David A. Welch
Disambiguation is a delicate process.
China's Navy Just Got Better at Detecting and Taking Out Submarines
By Ankit Panda
With the commissioning of the Gaoxin-6, the PLAN's anti-submarine warfare capabilities receive a major boost.
Does the Philippines’ South China Sea Case Against China Really Matter?
By Prashanth Parameswaran
As the trial gets underway, we should be clear about what it may – or may not – mean
India's INS Viraat, World's Longest-Serving Aircraft Carrier, Set for Decommissioning
By Ankit Panda
Plus, Russia-China tensions, Indian foreign policy, and a nationalist wave in China. Mid-week links.
Taiwan Vows to Defend South China Sea Claims as Philippines Case Begins Against China
By Prashanth Parameswaran
The government stands firm on its position.