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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.
North Korea Detains US Korean War Veteran
A few defense and security links ahead of the weekend.
With Pricey Naval Revamp, Bangladesh Can’t Afford to Fail
Bangladesh is one of the world’s poorest countries. But can it afford not to revamp its fledgling Navy?
South Korea to Go “All In” on F-35 Joint Strike Fighter
Plus, the Navy’s top officer is only slightly worried about sequester’s impact on the pivot. Wednesday defense links.
Offshore Engagement: The Right U.S. Strategy for Asia
Offshore engagement presents a middle ground between offshore balancing and deep commitment.
Indian Army Successfully Tests BrahMos Block-III Deep Penetration Variant
India tested a “block-III variant of BrahMos with deep penetration capability” from a mobile launcher.
Why Would Russia Sell China Su-35 Fighter Jets?
Given China’s history of stealing Russian defense technology, Moscow’s thinking is hard to understand.
Russia Flies Strategic Bombers Close to Japanese Airspace (Again)
Two Russian Tu-95 strategic bombers flew the length of Japan’s airspace this weekend.
Is China and Taiwan’s Diplomatic Truce Over?
Last week The Gambia decided to cut ties with Taiwan. The implications could be significant.
US Tests New Stealthy Long-Range Anti-Ship Missile
Lockheed Martin announced the second successful air-launched test of the Long Range Anti-Ship Missile (LRASM).
China and Malaysia To Hold Maritime Exercises: What Gives?
China and Malaysia will conduct their first military exercises next year.
Air-Sea Battle 2.0: A Global A2/AD Response
Air-Sea Battle has evolved much since its initial public unveiling. Its critics haven’t kept up.
What Will China's New National Security Council Do?
The Third Plenum wasn’t entirely about economic reform as expected.