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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.
New Construction Seen at Missile-Related Site in North Korea
By Associated Press
Satellite images show the completion of a new structure at the March 16 Factory near Pyongyang.
Malaysia’s New Game in the South China Sea
By Nguyen Hong Thao
What to make of Kuala Lumpur’s new claim to an extended continental shelf in the South China Sea.
The Significance of the Recent France-India Maritime Dialogue
By Rupakjyoti Borah
France and India have shared maritime interests in the Indo-Pacific.
Move US-North Korea Relations Into 2020, Not Back to 2017
By Bonnie Kristian
U.S.-North Korea diplomacy can be productive, if Pyongyang accepts a recent invitation -- and, more important, Washington is realistic in its demands.
US Pacific Commander Says China Seeks to Intimidate Region
By Associated Press
China's activities in territory it claims in the South China Sea are meant to intimidate other nations in the region, according to the commander of the U.S. Navy's Pacific Fleet.
What Will Japan’s Next Fighter Project Look Like?
By Robert Farley
From the outside, it may look a lot different than any other country’s fighter. On the inside, it may share crucial components with one or more international partners.
Report: China, Russia Have Draft UN Security Council Resolution Proposing Sanctions Relief for North Korea
By Ankit Panda
The resolution would relax economic constraints on North Korea.
US Senator Says US Troop Drawdown in Afghanistan Is Coming in 2020
By Associated Press
U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham said Monday that President Donald Trump will announce an American troop drawdown from Afghanistan this week.
China Issues Legal Guidance on Observing Prenotification Requirements for Marine Research in EEZs
By Ankit Panda
The guidance comes after the Indian Navy expelled a Chinese vessel conducting research activities inside the Indian EEZ.
US Navy F-35B-Carrying Amphibious Assault Ship Arrives in Japan
By Franz-Stefan Gady
The USS America arrived at its new homeport in Sasebo, Japan on December 6.
The Chinese Piece in Iran’s War Games
By Lucille Greer
Iran, Russia and China are set to conduct joint war games in late December. What’s in it for Beijing?
North Korea Announces ‘Crucial’ Test at Sohae, Says Will Benefit ‘Strategic Nuclear Deterrent’
By Ankit Panda
The test was announced by the Academy of National Defense Science.