US defense chief's call for capable allies sparks unease in Asia

U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin's push for allies to shoulder more of the Indo-Pacific security burden has stirred unease in Asia. At the Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore, Austin stated that regional security "is not a burden the United States can, or should, carry alone," emphasizing the need for "capable allies" with "real military and industrial capacity and political will."

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The United States must understand the different situations of each country. Malaysia and other developing countries need investment in many other areas, and if we do not develop, other problems will arise, causing domestic instability.

This stance drew criticism from some Southeast Asian nations. Malaysia's Defense Minister, Mohamad Khaled Nordin, countered that developing countries face competing investment needs. "The United States must understand the different situations of each country," he said, warning that a lack of investment in other areas could lead to domestic instability.

Singapore's Defense Minister, Ng Eng Hen, also voiced a desire for neutrality, stating, "We are not pro-China or anti-China, nor are we pro-US or anti-US. We are pro-ASEAN." This sentiment reflects a broader regional desire to avoid being drawn into great power rivalries.

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We are not pro-China or anti-China, nor are we pro-US or anti-US. We are pro-ASEAN.

Even close U.S. ally Japan expressed concern. Japanese Defense Minister Minoru Kihara directly questioned Austin, asking if he could deliver a message to "reassure the region" amid worries that "some countries underestimate" U.S. commitment. Austin responded by saying people often "confuse" U.S. global obligations with "turning its back on this region," and that the U.S. is "quietly but powerfully working to strengthen regional security capacity."

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I am concerned that some countries underestimate it. Can you deliver a message to reassure the region?

The U.S. approach, which appears to link military aid to defense spending increases, has also drawn scrutiny. Austin's promise of patrol boats to the Philippines, following its 15% defense budget hike last year, was seen by some as a reward. Similarly, South Korea's increased defense spending pledge was publicly praised. This has fueled speculation that the U.S. is selectively prioritizing allies for immediate support based on their willingness to increase defense contributions.

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People seem to confuse the fact that the United States has obligations all over the world with turning its back on this region. We are quietly but powerfully working to strengthen regional security capacity.