The Indo-Pacific is a strategic system encompassing the Indian and Pacific oceans, reflecting the expanding interests and reach of China and India as well as the enduring role of the US. The Lowy Institute's International Security program presents a weekly selection of links illuminating the changing security picture in this increasingly connected super-region.
- A new report authored by Michael Krepon and Toby Dalton from Carnegie on Pakistan's nuclear program. Essentially, will Pakistan accept achieving a strategic deterrent vis-à-vis India, or will it pursue 'full-spectrum' deterrence against targets both near and far?
- There's also an accompanying blog post from Krepon on Arms Control Wonk.
- Ahead of the massive World War Two victory parade in Beijing this week, Gideon Rachman in the Financial Times argues that China may be tempted by nationalism and militarism.
- And speaking of militarism, the PLA has its military monkey handlers in Beijing to help clear the skies of birds in preparation for the parade.
- Japan and China are also in a diplomatic row over UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon's planned attendance at the parade.
- A report from Taiwan's Ministry of National Defense has warned that China is likely to eventually declare an ADIZ in the South China Sea.
- Also, two researchers from SIPRI have speculated on China's motivations for its island building in the South China Sea.
- James Goldrick and Hugh White are involved in a debate over the future of Australia's surface naval combatants and shipbuilding.
- Why does North Korea's aging submarine force still pose a threat?