U.S. Seeks Deeper Defense Ties with Southeast Asia

U.S. Under Secretary of War for Policy Elbridge Colby and Assistant Secretary of War for Indo-Pacific Security Affairs John Noh are on a tour of Southeast Asia to deepen defense cooperation. The delegation's visit to the Philippines, Indonesia, Thailand, and Cambodia underscores Washington's commitment to strengthening security engagement in the Indo-Pacific.

The U.S. Embassy in Jakarta announced the delegation departed Friday, August 7, local time. During their visits, they will meet with counterparts and senior government officials to advance bilateral relationships and build "durable peace in the region through strength." This initiative follows the multinational Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) military exercise held in June and July.

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They will meet with their counterparts and other senior officials to advance the Department’s strong bilateral relationships in the region.

For Indonesia, the visit builds on Defense Minister Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin's February meeting with Noh. Their discussions focused on enhancing the defense partnership and aligning strategic priorities for regional stability. Preparations for the Super Garuda Shield 2026 joint exercise, involving thousands of personnel, were also a key topic. Minister Sjafrie highlighted Indonesia's commitment to international humanitarian missions and global peace.

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This trip reaffirms the Department’s commitment to build a durable peace in the region through strength.