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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.
On the Sidelines: Latin America's Pacific Security Interests
By Robert Farley
What’s happening on the other side of the Pacific?
China-Philippines Duel Over a South China Sea Code of Conduct
By Clint Richards
Both countries are developing their South China Sea strategies, neither of which has much to do with ASEAN.
China is Participating in RIMPAC 2014 — So What?
By Ankit Panda
China is sending ships to RIMPAC 2014. Is that really a big deal?
Burma to Purchase Chinese-Pakistani JF-17 Fighter Jets
By Zachary Keck
According to local media, Myanmar will become the first foreign purchaser of the Sino-Pakistan jointly produced fighter.
Will China's 'Reset' With India Work?
By Ankit Panda
India will accept China's economic overtures but it won't abandon its strategic mistrust so soon.
Aircraft Carrier Model Shows China’s Naval Ambitions
By Shahryar Pasandideh
Photos of a possible new carrier design indicate a change in strategy for China’s navy.
Pakistan Continues JF-17 Development
By Ankit Panda
Plus, India mulls allowing more FDI in defense deals and the U.S. response to a China-Japan war. Defense links.
Russia's Coming Combat Drones
By Zachary Keck
A senior Russian defense official says Moscow will have its first combat UAV ready by 2020.
Is India Building Thermonuclear Weapons?
By Zachary Keck
A new uranium enrichment facility is fueling concerns that India is intent on building thermonuclear weapons.
China’s Oversized Aircraft Carrier Ambitions
By Harry Kazianis
Reports suggest China will have an indigenous carrier battle group within three years. Don't bet on it.
US-Philippines to Hold South China Sea Naval Drill
By Zachary Keck
Later this month, the U.S. and Philippine Navies and Marines will hold a joint drill near the Scarborough Shoal.
America’s Air-Sea Battle Plan in Korea
By Zachary Keck
The U.S. military will adopt ASB as its new warfighting plan in Korea, according to a U.S. military official.