Winter 2024 Updates
Dear friends and colleagues,
It’s been some time since my last newsletter, and the last few months have been quite busy. First, I’m excited to share the publication of my latest book, Upstart: How China Became a Great Power (Oxford University Press, June 2024). This book couldn’t be more timely, as it explores how China competes, what this means for the United States, and its overall impact on the global order. In it, I introduce a novel framework—the “upstart approach”—to explain China’s rise through strategic emulation, exploitation, and entrepreneurship on the global stage. The book is now available for pre-order, and I’m delighted to share the promotional code ASFLYQ6, which saves you 30%! You can also pre-order the book at Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Bookshop.org, and other retailers.
The development in the China-Russia relationship is currently a major focus in geopolitical discussions. In this context, I’m happy to share the publication of my new article in Security Studies, “Sino-Russian Military Alignment and Its Implications for Global Security,” where I present a novel alignment framework that best captures warfighting capabilities and how great powers align. The first 50 readers can access free eprints; please feel free to share and I welcome your feedback. Building on this theme, I’m working on a new book project that examines the history of China-Russia military alignment, which has implications for Chinese foreign policy, regional security, alliance politics, and balancing theory.
Continuing with the theme of Sino-Russian alignment, my recent article in Foreign Affairs argues that the emerging tripartite alliance between China, Russia, and North Korea is more fragile than it appears, drawing parallels with their Cold War-era alliance. This suggests a potential strategic advantage for the United States in exploiting these rifts.
Additionally, I’m also proud to announce that I have been honored with the Defense Meritorious Service Medal and the Joint Service Commendation Medal for contributions to strategy, posture, and plans in Asia. After four great years of duty at INDOPACOM J5, I’m moving on to a new role for my reserve duty. I’ll be the Deputy Director for Reserve China Global Strategy at the Pentagon. The idea is to serve as a type of China consultant to the Air Force at the strategic level - so if there is anything I can help you with, let me know!
Looking ahead, I’ve got a busy travel schedule this summer, with trips planned to London, Norfolk, Singapore, Australia, Washington D.C., Japan, and Italy. If you happen to be in any of these locations, I’d be delighted to meet up!
v/r
OSM
RESEARCH
Oxford University Press (forthcoming June 2024)
“Upstart: How China Became a Great Power”
Security Studies
“Sino-Russian Military Alignment and Its Implications for Global Security”
Foreign Affairs
“The Next Tripartite Pact? China, Russia, and North Korea’s New Team Is Not Built to Last”
PODCASTS & MEDIA
In the Room With Peter Bergen
“Episode 35: The Americans Who Would Be on the Frontline of a War in the Pacific”
IN THE NEWS
“China Top Critic’s Exit From Congress Threatens Anti-Beijing Momentum.”(Wall Street Journal, March 2024).
“Taiwan’s Doubts About America Are Growing. That Could Be Dangerous.” (The New York Times, January 2024).
“Taiwan’s Presidential Frontrunner Faces a Balancing Act With China.” (Time, November 2023).
“US, China at critical odds on future of military AI.” (Asia Times, November 2023).