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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.
Japan, UK to Jointly Develop Missile Technology
By Ankit Panda
Plus, PLA infantry to exercise with the U.S. and Australia, the UCLASS, and MH17. Defense links.
Malaysian Airlines Flight MH17: Who Shot It Down?
By Zachary Keck
While Ukraine, Russia and separatists in eastern Ukraine are all suspects, the evidence strongly points to the latter.
Malaysian Airlines Flight MH17 Shot Down Over Donetsk, Ukraine
By Ankit Panda
The passenger airliner was allegedly shot down by an anti-air missile.
Avoid Falling Into Thucydides' Other Trap
By Robert Farley
When using the Thucydides Trap to describe U.S.-China relations, there's a lot worth keeping in mind.
US Boosts Naval Diplomacy in NE Asia
By Zachary Keck
The U.S. Navy and Marines are engaging in a series of drills with South Korea and Japan in the coming weeks.
Pakistan, Belarus Plan Military and Technical Cooperation
By Ankit Panda
Pakistan may be looking to export arms to Belarus.
China’s Rig Departure Proves Nothing
By Clint Richards
China has shown an ability to withstand regional pressure, and will likely return on its own terms.
Shaming Won’t Stop China’s Salami Slicing
By Zachary Keck
The U.S. military realizes it needs to do more to stop China's salami-slicing. Unfortunately, it doesn't know how.
US Navy Chief Visits China
By Ankit Panda
U.S. Navy Adm. Jonathan Greenert is in China to meet with PLAN Commander in Chief Adm. Wu Shengli.
The US Will Make More Strategic Mistakes Than China
By Dingding Chen
Ironically, the strengths of the U.S. domestic system are the exact reasons why its foreign policy often makes mistakes.
Submarine Modernization in East Asia
By Michael Raska
Countries around the region are upgrading their submarine fleets.
Taiwan’s Using Drones to Spy on China
By Zachary Keck
According to local media reports, Taiwan is expanding the scope of its UAV surveillance operations on China.