Defense Secretary Austin Warns China About Intimidating The Philippines

By Jim Morris, Warrior Vice President, News 

US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin III wrapped up a visit to Singapore in which he called the US a Pacific nation, met with China’s defense minister and stressed the overwhelming importance of alliances with countries in the region.

He also re-emphasized support for Taiwan and the Philippines in their conflicts with China. Austin also met with his counterparts from Japan and South Korea, spoke with defense ministers from nine southeastern Asian countries and discussed ways to boost military industrial capacity.

“The US is a Pacific nation. And it’s because this region, more than any other, is shaping the course of this century,” Austin said. “Let me be clear. The United States can be secure only if Asia is secure,” Austin said. “That’s why the United States has long maintained our presence in this region. And that’s why we continue to make the investments necessary to meet our commitments to our allies and partners.”

The US has been strengthening ties with its Pacific allies in order to counter the growing threat from China. Among them, the Pentagon is working with Japan to build a glide phase interceptor to defend against hypersonic weapons. It’s also co-producing fighter jet engines and armored vehicles with India, and working closer with Japan and South Korea to share early-warning data on North Korean missiles in real time.

“Together with our friends in the region, we’re breaking down national barriers and better integrating our defense industries,” Austin said.

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