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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.
How Much Do Strategic Thinkers Affect US Policy Anyway?
By Robert Farley
Foreign policy sometimes reflects what strategic thinkers recommend, but that might be coincidence.
Marine Corps Chief: Not Sure About Asia Force Posture
By Zachary Keck
The USMC’s top officer is uncertain about how much forward presence the U.S. needs in Asia.
India's Indigenous Nuclear Submarine, Agni-V ICBM Set To Launch In 2015
By Ankit Panda
India's DRDO confirmed that its new SSBN and ICBMs are on schedule for 2015.
India and Indonesia To Conduct Bilateral Naval Exercises
By Ankit Panda
India and Indonesia will upgrade their joint patrol activities to to bilateral exercises.
US Nixes Plan to Reduce Carrier Force
By Zachary Keck
Pressure from the White House and Congress has led the Pentagon to drop a plan to reduce the number of aircraft carriers.
Chinese Naval Exercise In Eastern Indian Ocean Sends Mixed Signals
By Ankit Panda
Chinese warships entered the eastern waters of the Indian Ocean for a rare exercise.
China’s Military Spending VS Asia’s Military Spending
By Zachary Keck
In 2013 China continued to widen the gap between its military spending and that of its neighbors.
The US Doesn’t Have a Strategy (And That’s a Good Thing)
By Robert Farley
Deciding not to decide is a strategy that could suit the U.S. well.
Turbulence Ahead for Taiwan’s F-16 Upgrade Program?
By J. Michael Cole
The US Air Force's budget decisions have thrown a wrench in Taiwan's air force modernization program.
Destined to Cooperate: Japan-South Korea Naval Relations
By Samuel Mun
It’s time for Japan and South Korea to put aside their differences and enhance naval cooperation.
Japanese Government Panel Likely To Recommend Lifting Collective Defense Ban
By Ankit Panda
A Japanese government panel will recommend that Japan remove its ban on collective self-defense.
US Navy Explores Sub-Launched Hypersonic Missiles
By Zachary Keck
The Navy is exploring the feasibility of sub-launched hypersonic missiles for conventional prompt global strike program.