US Presses Allies for Stronger Indo-Pacific Defense Amid US-China Tensions Rise

US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth urged regional partners at Asia’s premier defense forum to shoulder more of the security burden amid China’s rapid military rise. However, he faced concerns that US priorities may be drifting due to conflicts like Iran.

At the Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore, Hegseth told defense chiefs and officials from around the world that they could “do two things at one time.” His Japanese counterpart Shinjiro Koizumi said the US commitment was “unwavering,” despite some countries underestimating its resolve.

Regional defense chiefs emphasized the need to enhance their individual capabilities. Philippines’ Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro described it as “buttressing” the US’s traditional role, with Manila strengthening ties with Japan, Australia, Canada, and New Zealand.

Japan is positioning itself as a hub for broader regional cooperation. In April, Tokyo unveiled its biggest overhaul of defense export rules in decades, allowing exports of warships, missiles, and other weapons. Koizumi said Japan aims to be more proactive in defense equipment cooperation, ensuring each country has the capabilities needed when required.

Singapore’s Defense Minister Chan Chun Sing called for flexible partnerships with like-minded countries forming coalitions of the able and willing. Canada’s Chief of Defence Staff General Jennie Carignan said her forces are expanding their presence in the region, cooperating on cybersecurity and maritime exercises while helping Indonesian counterparts with English language training.

New Zealand is considering closer ties and fresh hardware to replace aging frigates. Defense Minister Chris Penk confirmed Wellington is exploring Japanese and British vessels. Despite regional nations deepening ties, Asian officials insisted that US commitment to the Indo-Pacific remains undimmed by conflicts like Iran or President Donald Trump’s “America First” policy.