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.
Is a China-India-Russia Coalition Inevitable?
By Dingding Chen
Although unlikely in the near future, the three powers share interests that bind them and pose a challenge to the U.S.
Why Hasn't Maritime Multilateralism Worked in Southeast Asia?
By Ankit Panda
Asian maritime disputes stem from deeply entrenched national interests.
Does Asia Need a New Maritime Organization Beyond ASEAN?
By Prashanth Parameswaran
Some are calling for a new institution to manage Asia’s maritime disputes.
Indian Prime Minister Visits Arunachal Pradesh, Drawing Chinese Criticism
By Ankit Panda
Plus, ISIS, public opinion in Myanmar, the Chinese military's weaknesses, aircraft carriers, and more. Weekend links.
The Real Lesson of the Vietnam War
By Robert Farley
Vietnam didn't reinforce perceptions of U.S. toughness to allies. In fact, it may have done the opposite.
Japan Hit by Cyberattacks at an Unprecedented Level
By Franz-Stefan Gady
Japan is trying to battle cyber attacks through increased international cooperation.
Is There a Silver Lining to China's South China Sea Land Reclamation?
By Shannon Tiezzi
China's land reclamation projects could be a precursor to a final definition of the "nine dash line."
Civilian Casualties in Afghanistan Rise by 22 Percent in 2014
By Franz-Stefan Gady
More face to face combat is behind a steep rise in conflict-related deaths and injuries among Afghan civilians in 2014.
Is the US Behind the Most Sophisticated Cyber Attacks to Date?
By Franz-Stefan Gady
A report by a Russian cybersecurity firm lays bare the activities of a highly sophisticated cyber attack group.
3 Ways China’s High Speed Railway Technology Can Help Its Foreign Policy
By Dingding Chen
High speed railway will be the Chinese economy’s new name card.
The Proposed Defense Ministry Hotline Between China and South Korea
By Sukjoon Yoon
Is a hotline necessary, and can it be effective?
From China With Love: China, Norway and Espionage
By Benjamin David Baker
Norway's decision to expel a Chinese researcher on "national security" grounds keeps Sino-Norwegian relations cool.