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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.
Is Trilateral China-India-Russia Cooperation in Afghanistan Possible?
By Ankit Panda
Indian, Chinese and Russian officials will meet on Friday to discuss Afghanistan. Is there substance to this trilateral?
What If China Did Invade Pag-asa Island?
By Carl Thayer
An invasion of Pag-asa Island by Chinese forces would certainly be a tragic mistake for China.
US Navy Tweaks Pacific Carrier Force
By Zachary Keck
Starting next year, the USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76) will call Yokosuka, Japan its home port.
Japan Mulls Aircraft Carrier Future?
By Zachary Keck
Japan will reportedly fly surveillance drones from its destroyers as a possible prelude to building aircraft carriers.
US Firm Under Investigation For Using Made-in-China Parts in F-35 Components
By Ankit Panda
Also, Chinese military planning changes, a U.S.-South Korean military deal, and Edward Snowden in India. Mid-week links.
China Tests Hypersonic Missile Vehicle
By Ankit Panda
The ICBM-launched missile vehicle descends from near-space altitudes at hypersonic speeds.
New Iran Sanctions Would Undermine Coercion
By Mira Rapp-Hooper
New US sanctions would show Iranian leaders that diplomacy cannot end the nuclear standoff.
China's New Fishing Regulations: An Act of State Piracy?
By Carl Thayer
Hainan provinces new rules about fishing complicate China's relationship with ASEAN.
US To Deploy More Troops To South Korea
By Ankit Panda
Plus China's naval ambitions, Taiwanese anti-ship missiles, Robert Gates' memoirs, and nuclear security. Weekend links.
Why Do Fighter Aircraft Cost So Much?
By Robert Farley
Are there good reasons for fighters being as pricey as they are?
The Sukhoi-30 MKI: India's Two-Front War Ace?
By Ankit Panda
The Sukhoi-30 MKI could be the Indian Air Force's ace up its sleeve as a "swing force" fighter in a two-front war.
Robert Gates: Pakistan 'Really No Ally At All'
By Ankit Panda
Robert Gates doesn't trust Pakistan and neither should the United States.