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.

Anti-Access on the Korean Peninsula

North Korea confronts probably the hardest anti-access challenge of any coastal defender.

The Real Iran Threat

While Iran might not be able to defeat America, it might be able exact a heavy toll. Would an American President pause?

Flashy Name, Old Idea: Anti-Access Strategy

While made popular by recent analysis of China’s military, anti-access has deep routes in history.

Can China 'Win' Without Fighting?

Beijing’s “shadowboxing” strategy: China may have the luxury of wearing down Japan in the East China Sea.

A Cold War State of Mind?

While there is room for debate concerning the makeup of the U.S. Navy, certain comparisons warrant a bit of caution.

North Korea's Nuclear War Plan: "Go Nuts" and 'Dig in"

With a small nuclear arsenal, Pyongyang may need to adopt a truly frightening atomic doctrine.

Japan: Joining the Nuclear Weapons Club? It Could.

“…the prospect no longer appears unthinkable.”

Fear Factor in Nuclear Iran

Fear, not the type of government, will be the key determinant of Iranian nuclear strategy.

Nuclear Weapons and Rationality

Being seen as less-than-fully rational confers advantages. Nations in Asia may take notice.

The Second Nuclear Age

While nuclear inventories have decreased dramatically since the end of the Cold War, new states are gaining atomic weapons.

Japan's Cold War Navy

“An unintended consequence of Cold War maritime strategy is that the JMSDF remains a partial navy.”

If Romney Wins, Does the U.S. Navy Expand?

A recent interview suggests a Romney win could see an expansion of the U.S. Navy. Can he convince the public?