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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.
International Law and the South China Sea
By Truong-Minh Vu and Trang Pham
China's approach to international law is driving the US and ASEAN into a ‘juridical alliance.’
US Finalizes Sale of Perry-class Frigates to Taiwan
By Ankit Panda
U.S. President Barack Obama signed legislation approving the sale of four frigates to Taiwan.
US Considering Options After Sony Hack
By Ankit Panda
Plus, U.S. PACOM has a new commander, Putin isn't happy, and ISRO's rocket launch. Weekend links.
The Geopolitical Lessons of US-Cuba Rapprochement
By Robert Farley
The United States and Cuba will re-establish diplomatic relations, ending a vestige of U.S. Cold War policy.
Taiwan's DPP's Election Success: Brought to You by the 1992 Consensus
By Dingding Chen
The ‘1992 consensus’ is behind the Democratic Progressive Party’s (DPP) big win in the local elections.
China and India: Nationalism and Nuclear Risk
By Ali Ahmed
When considering nuclear escalation between China and India, don’t forget the effects of nationalism.
Chinese Maritime Activism: Strategy Or Vagary?
By Ryan D. Martinson
A new study questions the conventional wisdom of a coordinated national strategy.
Indonesia: Playing With Fire in the South China Sea
By Carl Thayer
Indonesia's new president could jeopardize bilateral relations and ASEAN unity with his maritime "shock therapy."
India's Indigenous SSBN Begins Sea Trials
By Ankit Panda
India's INS Arihant began its sea trials after over a year of delays.
US-Japan Defense Guideline Revision Postponed
By Ankit Panda
The United States and Japan will delay the revision of their defense guidelines until the middle of next year.
Ashton Carter Knows India Well
By Seema Sirohi
Carter’s nomination bodes well for India-U.S. relations, but India will need to be proactive.
Land-Based Coastal Defence Is Indeed No Joke
By Benjamin David Baker
Need more examples? Look to Northern Europe during WWII.