Eugene R.L. Tan

Japan’s Growing Hard-power Profile: Implications for Southeast Asia

Hoang Thi Ha|Eugene R.L. Tan

Japan is emerging as a consequential hard-power player, expanding its deterrence and defence-industrial capabilities, as well as its regional and global defence networks. As Japan strengthens its military posture, Southeast Asian states are under mounting pressure to navigate the intensifying Tokyo-Beijing rivalry while carefully managing domestic sensitivities.

High Mast, Low Draft: The UK’s Indo-Pacific Deployment

William Choong|Eugene R.L. Tan

Notwithstanding an ongoing high-profile naval deployment, the UK cannot be considered a credible power in the Indo-Pacific as long as it tiptoes around the security challenges from China.

The State of Southeast Asia Survey 2025

Turbulent Waters Remain Top of Mind

Hoang Thi Ha|Eugene R.L. Tan

China has sought to paint a narrative about a peaceful situation in the South China Sea. But Southeast Asian respondents to the State of Southeast Asia Survey 2025 beg to differ.

The State of Southeast Asia Survey 2025

Beijing Retains Considerable Weight in Regional Perceptions

Sharon Seah|Eugene R.L. Tan

Despite some apprehension about its actions, Beijing continues to retain considerable weight among Southeast Asian elites. This should improve if China learns to temper its assertiveness, particularly in the South China Sea.

UK and the Indo-Pacific: Get Real about Progressive Realism

Eugene R.L. Tan|William Choong

The UK might be scaling down its footprint into the Indo-Pacific. This is a bad idea.