- China ups the ante in its East China Sea dispute with Japan by unilaterally announcing a new Air Defense Identification Zone, which includes the disputed Senkaku/Diaoyu Islands. For those needing a refresher, the Financial Times has good Q&A guide on the dispute.
- China's new drone prototype, the Sharp Sword or 'Lijian', has made its maiden flight.
- Indrani Bagchi asks if India-Pakistan talks may now be getting back on track, with political wins (and pitfalls) possible for both sides.
- Hans Kristensen looks at some of the budgetary cuts the Pentagon has to decide upon. He argues that a reduction of the SSBN fleet from its current size would be a win for all.
- Robert Farley argues that American offshore engagement could retain forward operating capability and emphasise beneficial multilateralism.
- The Snowden leaks keep coming. The Sydney Morning Herald unveils the close cooperation of Singapore and South Korea under Five Eyes.
- This map from the Australian Department of Defence shows exactly where and how development assistance has been used in assisting the Philippines.
The Lowy Institute International Security Program's work on Indo-Pacific security is supported by two grants from the John D. and Catherine T. MacArthur Foundation.