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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.
US-India Cooperation on Naval Aviation: Game Changer?
By Robert Farley
India and the United States will cooperate on naval aviation following U.S. President Barack Obama's recent visit to New Delhi.
India: The Austria-Hungary of the 21st Century?
By Franz-Stefan Gady
If it heeds the lessons of history, the US would do well not to foster close ties with India in the next few years.
US Admiral: Japanese Operations in South China Sea 'Make Sense' in the Future
By Ankit Panda
The United States might support Japanese military operations in the South China Sea.
We No Longer Know What is Happening With the War in Afghanistan
By Franz-Stefan Gady
A new report by a US government watchdog attacks the over-classification regime of the Pentagon in Afghanistan.
President Putin of Ukraine?
By Greg Austin
Is it only a question of time before Russia will annex parts of Ukraine?
ASEAN to Intensify South China Sea Response Amid China Concerns
By Prashanth Parameswaran
Grouping to accelerate efforts to conclude an elusive code of conduct.
The Mixed Consequences of Sino-Indian Competition in the Indian Ocean
By Jack Detsch
China and India’s rivalry threatens peace in the Indian Ocean basin. It’s also sparking a needed flood of development.
A Transformative Moment in Indo-US Ties?
By Harsh V. Pant
Recent bilateral diplomacy between the United States and India is indicative of a long-term convergence.
Why the US Should Encourage Closer Sino-Indian Ties
By Franz-Stefan Gady
A "deadlocked alliance" between Beijing and New Delhi may be good news for the United States.
Is China Building a Base Near the Senkakus?
By Prashanth Parameswaran
New satellite imagery confirms that it is, with more clarification on specifics.
The Philippines, Malaysia, and Vietnam Race to South China Sea Defense Modernization
By Carl Thayer
Malaysia, the Philippines, and Vietnam are all striving to bolster their maritime capabilities.
What if China Never Acquired the Varyag?
By Robert Farley
China’s acquisition of the Varyag was contingent on a series of improbable events.