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Indo-Pacific Partnerships: Austin Highlights Regional Security

Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin underscored the pivotal role of US alliances at a time of growing challenges in the Indo-Pacific region during a change of command ceremony at Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam on Friday.  

Reinforcing Regional Cooperation

With allies Australia, Japan and the Philippines at his side, Austin emphasized the importance of deepening cooperation to uphold a "free and open Indo-Pacific" amid China's military buildup and provocations. He praised the multi-nation naval drills and expanded defense agreements underpinning the US commitment to deterring Beijing's "coercive behavior" from the East and South China Seas to the Taiwan Strait. "Together with our unmatched network of allies and partners, you're advancing our shared vision of a free and open Indo-Pacific," Austin told Indo-Pacific Command (Indo-Pacom) personnel.   Key Partnership Milestones: Deploying cutting-edge US Marine units to Japan Four new US military access sites in the Philippines Bolstered Major Defense Partnership with India AUKUS submarine deal with Australia and UK  

Lloyd J. Austin III speaks with Adm. John Aquilino, at U.S. Indo-Pacific Command headquarters, Camp H.M. Smith, Hawaii. Photo by Sgt. Sanders. US Department of Defense.  

Pivot to New Indo-Pacom Leadership

The ceremony marked Navy Adm. John Aquilino's retirement after spearheading a "transformation" of the US force posture under his four-year tenure as the previous Indo-Pacom commander. Austin credited Aquilino for securing munitions upgrades, new deterrent capabilities for troops, and orchestrating unparalleled cooperation across the region's allied militaries. Austin said: "Indo-Pacom has risen to meet the moment, together with our allies and partners, and it has moved us closer to our shared vision of an Indo-Pacific that is free and open and secure — again and again and again."   Taking over is Navy Adm. Samuel Paparo, a 37-year veteran flier who until now led the US Pacific Fleet. The Pentagon expects his deep regional experience will enable Indo-Pacom to "deny and defend against attempts to break the peace."   Pressing Indo-Pacific Threats - China's Military Assertiveness - North Korea's Nuclear Program - Russian Influence Operations - Violent Extremist Groups  

Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III arrives at U.S. Indo-Pacific Command headquarters, Camp H.M. Smith, Hawaii, May 2, 2024. Photo by Sgt. Jackie Saunders. DOD.   Pivotal Theater for US Security Austin acknowledged Indo-Pacific security challenges for elite American forces despite diplomatic milestones. China's drive to reshape the global order stands as the "pacing threat" for US defense strategy. But North Korea's illicit nuclear program, Russia's disruptive meddling, and emboldened terrorist groups add further volatility. As the ceremonies concluded, Austin expressed confidence the new commander has what it takes to "lead with principle and pride" in confronting these complex dynamics alongside regional partners. "We know that you will keep America safe," the Pentagon chief declared.   Sources: THX News & US Department of Defense. Read the full article