James Holmes

Everything old is new again. As in past ages, rising and established powers are gazing seaward–and thinking about how to use sea power to advance their power and purposes. Professor Jim Holmes sizes up the prospects for competition and cooperation in maritime Asia–looking back across history to catch sight of the future.

History's Lens: How to Look at China

What is the better optic for looking at today’s China: Bismarckian/Wilhelmine Germany, or post-Meiji Japan?

China's Small-Stick Diplomacy Goes Airborne

With Chinese aircraft flying near disputed islands, Beijing seems to be employing a familiar strategy.

The Real Fog of War: Assumptions

“A lesson from 1905: to succeed in international competition, take off your cultural blinkers…”

Red Star Over the Atlantic?

Could Chinese naval vessels soon be on patrol in the Atlantic Ocean?

Woody Allen Meets America's Pivot to Asia

Seldom does anyone define what the pivot is. Maybe Woody Allen has the answer…

Beijing's Goal: A New Normal

By acting as though it exercises jurisdiction over disputed areas, China hopes to create a new status quo.

George Washington, Mao and Snooki

“That spontaneous revolt conjures up images of the Jersey Shore crowd rising up to battle an invading horde…”

A Cold War Solution for the South China Sea?

Could the 1972 U.S.-Soviet Incidents at Sea (INCSEA) Agreement be a model to reduce tensions?

One Landing Does Not Make a Carrier

While China’s new carrier has landed aircraft on the flight deck, major challenges still remain.

Thucydides, Japan and America

As Tokyo and Washington revise their defense guidelines, a look to one of ancient Greece’s most renowned scholars would be wise.

Clausewitz, Sun Tzu, or Mao Zedong?

Who do you consider the best military strategist? James Holmes surveys the field for some answers.

Comparing Chinese Naval Power to the Soviet Navy

In some respects, China poses a tougher maritime challenge than did the Soviet Union.