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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.
China, South Korea Establish Military Hotline
By Ankit Panda
High-level defense officials met in Beijing to establish a hotline and discuss Japan's collective self-defense.
Can India Become a Multilateral Maritime Leader?
By Ankit Panda
In addition to maritime bilateralism, India should expand its multilateral leadership.
China Conducts Third Anti-Missile Test
By Zachary Keck
China’s military conducted a successful land-based anti-missile test this week, following similar ones in 2010 and 2013.
Russia and Malaysia Face Uncertain Future After MH17
By Robert Farley
Following the downing of flight MH17 over Ukraine, Russia may find its Asian relationships dwindle.
Japan’s Building 2 Aegis Destroyers
By Zachary Keck
Tokyo is accelerating its timetable for acquiring two additional Aegis-equipped ballistic missile defense ships.
John Kerry: North Korea is 'Quieter' Now
By Ankit Panda
North Korea's 'quietness' tells us little about its intentions or of the success of U.S. diplomacy.
3 Reasons the BRICS' New Development Bank Matters
By Dingding Chen
This is just the beginning of a new international economic order; it will be a gradual, but steady process.
Does China Care About Air Power?
By Ankit Panda
The PLA has always been a ground force-centric military. Is that changing?
4 Reasons China Removed Oil Rig HYSY-981 Sooner Than Planned
By Carl Thayer
The reasons China withdrew oil rig HYSY-981 sooner than planned are complex but revealing about its intentions.
Russia to Reopen Spy Base in Cuba
By Zachary Keck
Russia and Cuba signed a preliminary deal to reopen the Soviet Union’s largest foreign intelligence base at Lourdes.
China Is Spying on RIMPAC
By Zachary Keck
Despite being a participant in RIMPAC, China has sent an electronic surveillance ship to spy on the maritime exercise.
After MH17, France Must Cancel Sale of Warships to Russia
By Robert C. O'Brien
Instead of selling Russia two Mistral-class warships, France should sell them to the U.S. Navy.