Countries across the Indo-Pacific are rapidly strengthening their military capabilities and expanding regional defence partnerships as concerns grow over China’s military expansion and questions persist about the long-term focus of the United States in the region.
The issue took centre stage at the Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore, Asia’s premier security forum, where defence leaders from around the world gathered to discuss mounting geopolitical challenges.
U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth urged regional allies to take on a greater share of the security burden, while seeking to reassure partners that Washington remains fully committed to the Indo-Pacific despite ongoing conflicts elsewhere, including tensions involving Iran.
“We can do two things at one time,” Hegseth said, addressing concerns that U.S. strategic attention could be divided between multiple global flashpoints.
While several regional leaders expressed confidence in America’s commitment, many also acknowledged the need for countries in the region to become more self-reliant and deepen cooperation with one another.
Philippines Defence Secretary Gilberto Teodoro said there was broad agreement among defence leaders that nations must rapidly strengthen their own military capabilities in response to evolving security threats.
He described current efforts as a way of reinforcing, rather than replacing, the traditional U.S. security umbrella. The Philippines has been expanding defence cooperation with countries including Japan, Australia, Canada and New Zealand.
“The commitment of the United States becomes stronger when more partners contribute to regional deterrence because we are facing common security challenges,” Teodoro said.
Japan is emerging as a key player in this evolving security network. Japanese Defence Minister Shinjiro Koizumi said Tokyo aims to become a vital connector between regional partners seeking closer cooperation.
Earlier this year, Japan announced its most significant defence export reforms in decades, easing restrictions on overseas arms sales and paving the way for exports of warships, missiles and other military equipment.
Koizumi said Japan intends to play a more active role in defence equipment cooperation to help ensure regional partners have access to the capabilities they need.
Singapore Defence Minister Chan Chun Sing also called for more flexible partnerships among like-minded nations, arguing that new coalitions would help countries address emerging security challenges more effectively.
Beyond Asia, countries such as Canada and New Zealand are also expanding their engagement in the region. Canada’s military is increasing cooperation with partners through cybersecurity initiatives and maritime exercises, while New Zealand is exploring new defence procurement options, including Japanese and British naval vessels to replace its ageing frigate fleet.
New Zealand Defence Minister Chris Penk said regional defence partnerships could be expanded further, including through the long-standing Five Power Defence Arrangements involving New Zealand, Australia, Singapore, Malaysia and the United Kingdom.
Despite growing efforts to diversify security cooperation, regional leaders repeatedly emphasised that confidence in the United States remains strong.
Philippines officials said America’s involvement in conflicts elsewhere had not shaken their confidence in Washington’s commitment to the Indo-Pacific, while Australian Defence Minister Richard Marles described the U.S.-Australia alliance as fundamental to Australia’s national security.
As geopolitical tensions continue to reshape the region, Indo-Pacific nations appear increasingly determined to strengthen both their own military capabilities and regional partnerships, creating a broader and more interconnected security network alongside traditional U.S. leadership.
