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.
Terrorist's Laptop Fuels Night Raids in Afghanistan
By Franz-Stefan Gady
The data retrieved from a mysterious laptop is responsible for a spike in Afghan and U.S. attacks on the Taliban.
Are We Prepared for 'Hybrid Warfare'?
By Prashanth Parameswaran
From Russia in Ukraine to China in the East China Sea, it is worth assessing how the world may respond.
What the Vietnam War Hawks Got Wrong
By Robert Farley
James Burnham, and other Vietnam hawks, hardly deserve contemporary rehabilitation.
China Unveils Major South China Sea Gas Find
By Prashanth Parameswaran
Large yields may further fuel resource extraction efforts in contentious waters.
Here’s How Malaysia and Indonesia Plan to Resolve Their Territorial Disputes
By Ankit Panda
Indonesia and Malaysia will appoint "special envoys" to help resolve their territorial disputes.
China Confirms Pakistan Nuclear Projects
By Prashanth Parameswaran
Top official confirms extent of the growing Sino-Pakistan nuclear link.
Mainland Firm Lends a Hand as Taiwan Expands South China Sea Presence
By Shannon Tiezzi
A Shanghai shipping firm helped deliver materials Taiwan needs to construct a port in the disputed Spratly Islands.
Could East Asia's Weak Institutions Be a Blessing in Disguise?
By Robert Farley
East Asia's multilateral institutions -- from ASEAN to APEC -- are generally weak. This might be a good thing.
Philippines Accuses China of Ramming Boats in South China Sea
By Shannon Tiezzi
Once again, the Philippine government is publicizing China's bad behavior in the South China Sea.
Pakistan to Revive Military Parade Amid Tensions with India
By Prashanth Parameswaran
Chinese president Xi Jinping may be the chief guest next month.
Why China Doesn't See India As a Threat
By Dingding Chen
A warmer India-U.S. relationship will not hurt China-India relations -- unless India makes a suicidal choice.
Relax, US-China Military Exchanges Are Fine
By Ankit Panda
Recent reports that U.S.-China military exchanges are paused have been rebuffed by both governments.