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.
Dual-Use Traders: The Real WMD Threat in Southeast Asia?
By Nick Gillard
Southeast Asian states lack the legal framework to stop the illicit dual-use trade.
Japan Scrambling Jets at Cold War Levels
By Prashanth Parameswaran
Tokyo reportedly scrambling its fighter jets at record pace in the face of growing incursions.
The Spies Are Coming! The Spies Are Coming to Taiwan!
By J. Michael Cole
Just how bad is Taiwan's spy problem?
Philippines Blasts China on South China Sea Reclamation Work
By Prashanth Parameswaran
Officials criticize Chinese actions following U.S.-Philippine strategic dialogue.
Islamic State Threatens to Kill Two Captured Japanese Citizens
By Ankit Panda
The Islamic State is demanding $200 million in ransom from the Japanese government for two captured Japanese citizens.
What the Ukraine Crisis Means for Asia
By Nadège Rolland
The impact of the crisis will continue to be felt across Asia this year.
The Sony Case: Another Look
By Franz-Stefan Gady
Many security researchers in the United States remain skeptical about the degree of North Korea’s involvement.
Political Violence Grows in Bangladesh
By Ankit Panda
Plus, India's DRDO sacks its head, Afghanistan and Pakistan relations, PLA infantry, and more. Weekend links.
An East Asian Arms Race: Does It Even Matter?
By Ian Sundstrom
Capability is no substitute for intent, and one shouldn’t be studied without the other.
Solving the US Navy's Carrier Fleet Puzzle
By Robert Farley
The United States' Navy still faces a vibrant debate on the future of its aircraft carriers and supercarriers.
Russia to Build 10 Arctic Airfields by 2016
By Ankit Panda
Russia aims to have a total of 14 airfields in the Arctic region by 2016.
China’s New Flight Routes Rile Taipei
By J. Michael Cole
China has announced new commercial flight routes that run extremely close to Taiwan.