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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.
Rationalist Explanations for War in the East China Sea
By Ankit Panda
China and Japan could go to war over the Senkaku/Diaoyu islands, even if it meant economic ruin.
China’s Unmanned Carrier-Based J-20 is a Pipedream (For Now)
By Harry Kazianis
For years to come an unmanned, carrier-based 5th generation stealth fighter will remain a fantasy in Beijing.
Japan to Approve New China-Centric Defense Posture
By Zachary Keck
Tokyo showed reporters drafts of the new National Defense Program Guidelines and National Security Strategy.
US-Philippines Struggle to Reach Troop Basing Deal
By Carl Thayer
While both sides are eager to conclude an agreement, negotiations still face numerous stumbling blocks.
Relax, Afghanistan Isn’t Going to Collapse
By Robert Farley
Regional states have too many interests at stake in Afghanistan to allow a repeat of the 1990s.
Is Kim Jong-Un Headed For China?
By Zachary Keck
Chinese state media is calling for the North Korean leader to be invited to Beijing, suggesting a trip will be forthcoming.
China Is Surprisingly OK with South Korea's New ADIZ
By Shannon Tiezzi
China's restrained reaction to South Korea's expanded ADIZ further proves that its main concern is Japan.
New Russian Air-to-Air Missiles Will Field Almost Perfect Accuracy
By Ankit Panda
The new missiles may never miss their targets by solving a years-old problem in radar technology.
Militarization of the Arctic Heats Up, Russia Takes the Lead
By J. Michael Cole
Arctic states have begun rebuilding their military forces and capabilities in order to operate in the region.
China's Carrier-Based J-15 Begins Mass Production, Delivery
By Zachary Keck
China’s state media reports that its 4th generation multirole aircraft is being mass produced and delivered to the PLA.
Precision Strike Technology Goes Global
By Robert Farley
Surviving a world of diffuse precision strike is a strategic and organizational problem for the US military.
A South China Sea ADIZ: China’s Next Move
By Harry Kazianis
The East China Sea Air Defense Identification Zone is just the beginning.