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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 Moves Second Oil Rig Into Vietnam's Exclusive Economic Zone
By Ankit Panda
China's Maritime Safety Administration (MSA) announced that a second oil rig will set up off Vietnam's coast.
The Imperial Japanese Navy and the First World War
By Robert Farley
As we reflect on the centennial of 1914, remember that East Asia was involved in the First World War as well.
International Law Won't Solve Asia's Territorial Disputes
By Dingding Chen
International law won't solve all of Asia's problems. In fact, it could exacerbate them.
India Launches its Largest Warship: INS Vikramaditya
By Ankit Panda
Prime Minister Narendra Modi presided over the formal induction of India's largest naval asset: the INS Vikramaditya.
China’s Information Warfare Campaign and the South China Sea: Bring It On!
By Carl Thayer
As its dispute with Vietnam continues, China is trying to have it both ways at the United Nations.
How Indonesia and the Philippines Solved Their Maritime Dispute
By Ambassador Arif Havas Oegroseno
The recent Indonesian-Philippine maritime pact offers important lessons for the South China Sea disputes.
Australia Mulls Military Action in Iraq
By Zachary Keck
Prime Minister Tony Abbott says he will not rule out using military force in Iraq if the situation worsens.
Neutralizing Contention: A New Policy for Taiping Island and the South China Sea
By J. Michael Cole
To create space between its maritime claims and Beijing's, Taiwan should neutralize Taiping Island.
Who Sold North Korea a New Anti-Ship Missile?
By Zachary Keck
North Korea’s new Kh-35 anti-ship missile threatens South Korean vessels. Who sold it to Pyongyang?
China and Japan’s Game of Chicken in the East China Sea
By Harry Kazianis
Close calls between Chinese and Japanese aircraft could eventually turn deadly.
China Displays World’s Largest Conventional Submarine
By Zachary Keck
State media report that China’s new Type 032 Qing-class submarine was displayed at an expo last week.
India’s Nuclear Triad Finally Coming of Age
By Dinakar Peri
India is testing its latest submarine and missile technologies, which could change the regional security equation.