Security & Defense
The PLA, the US Indo-Pacific Command, the Quad, AUKUS and the emerging security architecture of the region.
Cape Route Emerges as New Normal for Global Shipping After Hormuz Closure
Armed attacks on Iran and the subsequent closure of the Strait of Hormuz have forced shipping lines to reroute around Africa. The Cape sea r
End Iran Conflict Before Trump-Xi Summit to Avert a Hedgehog World
Iran may stall negotiations until after the March 31 Trump-Xi summit, betting on Chinese support. Prolonged conflict could embolden hardline
Taiwan Cultivates Space and Drone Tech for Layered Defense Strategy
Taiwan is accelerating its space-defense capabilities through a government-backed program linking international startups with local ICT manu
China's Export Controls on Japan Signal Economic Leverage Risks for Southeast Asia
China has escalated export controls on Japanese defense-linked firms, moving from broad restrictions to targeting specific companies. This e
Trump's Venezuela Win Strengthens Hand Ahead of Xi Summit, But Risks Overreach
The capture of Venezuelan leader Nicolas Maduro gives Trump a stronger hand ahead of his April summit with Xi Jinping. He now controls billi
South Korea Would Strengthen Quad but Cannot Replace India's Role
South Korea's possible inclusion in the Quad has gained attention, but it cannot replace India. Seoul's focus on North Korea, economic depen