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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.
5 Ways Russia’s Ukraine ‘Boomerang’ Could Strike Asia
By Harry Kazianis
Putin has warned that U.S. action over Ukraine would have a boomerang effect. Will the target be Asia?
India Wades Into South China Sea Dispute
By Zachary Keck
Indian officials have suggested that Delhi is preparing to become more actively involved in the South China Sea.
Indian Authorities Investigate Rolls-Royce Bribery Charges
By Ankit Panda
An audit by state-run Hindustan Aeronatucs Ltd suggested bribery in deals with Rolls-Royce for fighter engines.
Why Spy on Taiwan When Taiwan Gives Information Away for Free?
By J. Michael Cole
Mainland China's attempts to spy on Taiwanese activities are being abetted by Taiwanese agents.
Malaysia Airlines Flight 370 Search and Rescue: Cooperation in the South China Sea
By Ankit Panda
The search and rescue effort for the missing Malaysian Airlines flight showcases rare goodwill in the South China Sea.
Why Singapore Wants the F-35
By Carl Thayer
Singapore is studying the F-35B Lightning as part of its larger effort to gain air dominance in its neighborhood.
China’s Defense Budget: A Mixed Bag
By Zachary Keck
For the U.S. and its allies, China’s new defense budget contains both bad news and good news.
US, Japan to Jointly Develop Littoral Combat Ship
By J. Michael Cole
The U.S. and Japan will jointly develop a littoral combat ship (LCS) for quick intervention in shallow waters.
China Expands Defense Budget to $132 Billion
By Ankit Panda
Also, the J-20 has some changes, Russia tests an ICBM, and check out the Flashpoints podcast.
How Ukraine Spillover Could Complicate the US Withdrawal From Afghanistan
By Ankit Panda
Putin has an ace up his sleeve: shutting down the Northern Distribution Network.
North Korea Tests Mid-Range Rocket Launcher
By Ankit Panda
North Korea continues to provoke the South amid its exercises with the United States.
Precedent Matters: What Ukraine Tells Us About East Asia's Disputes
By Robert Farley
Russia's invasion of Crimea will set some important precedents – precedents that could affect East Asia.