The files we follow: China in the Indo-Pacific; Chinese Defence and Taiwan Strait; Chinese economic strategies and dynamics; China – Southeast relations; China and the BRICS; Power competition in the Indopacific; Relations between US and Indo-Pacific countries…
Consider subscribing for free access to the full content!
Despite economic uncertainties looming over the Indo-Pacific region, fueled by recent announcements from the U.S. government, the security aspect appears reassuring. While some feared a U.S. disengagement from defense matters due to the economic context, the resumption of numerous military exercises instead demonstrates a clear intent to maintain, if not strengthen, their strategic presence in the region.
Admiral Samuel Paparo stated in a speech before the U.S. Senate that the Indo-Pacific remains the number one priority for the Department of Defense under Donald Trump’s administration. He then outlined the strategic context of the region and the potential threats that could arise, with China undoubtedly being the main actor.
Indeed, tensions in the region are intensifying, with a 300% increase in actions against Taiwan since 2024. These include military operations, cognitive warfare, cyberattacks, and economic coercion targeting Taiwan, all coinciding with a modernization of the Chinese fleet—featuring seven new submarines—and the development of ballistic missiles and weapons of mass destruction. But Taiwan is not the only flashpoint in the South China Sea. Philippine, Vietnamese, and other ASEAN partner vessels are regularly targeted. Furthermore, Russia’s presence in joint exercises, alongside the deployment of North Korean soldiers to the war in Ukraine, adds fuel to already tense and worrisome dynamics.
Admiral Paparo thus laid out the main pillars of his USINDOPACOM strategy. This approach aims to deter, manage crises, and maintain combat readiness in the region, which necessarily involves a visible and credible presence—particularly by demonstrating the United States’ rapid deployment capabilities. Accordingly, many joint exercises were conducted in the region in 2024 to showcase operational capability and allied cooperation. Similarly, several joint military drills began in March and April 2025.
Vous devez souscrire à un abonnement EurasiaPeace pour avoir accès au contenu - Prendre votre abonnement
