Pentagon Chief Warns of China’s Rise, Calls Allies to Increase Defense Spending

• Building a stronger alliance network is crucial to preventing aggression: Hegseth.
• U.S.-Taiwan arms sales remain steady.
• U.S. prepared to resume strikes on Iran if diplomatic efforts fail.

SINGAPORE: On Saturday, US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth called on Asian allies to increase military expenditures to counter China’s expanding influence and prevent its regional dominance, warning of a “legitimate concern” over its rapid military growth.

Speaking at the Shangri-La Dialogue — Asia’s top forum for defense officials, militaries, and diplomats — Hegseth emphasized the importance of a more resilient, self-sufficient alliance network in deterring aggression and maintaining regional stability.

“There is a valid concern regarding China’s historic military expansion and increased regional military activities,” he stated.

“A Pacific led by a single hegemon would disrupt the regional balance of power,” Hegseth added. “No nation, including China, has the right to impose its dominance and jeopardize the security or prosperity of our nations and allies.”

The U.S. expects its Asian partners and allies to boost defense spending to 3.5% of their GDP, alongside a planned $1.5 trillion military investment, said the Pentagon chief.

Hegseth underscored that allies prefer stability over conflict escalation.

“What they seek, and what the United States provides, is firm strength, unwavering resolve, and leadership confident enough to speak softly while wielding a big stick.”

He also spoke cautiously about US-China relations, noting they are “better than they have been in many years,” aided by more frequent military contacts that help manage rising tensions.

“We are engaging more regularly with our Chinese counterparts through open military communication channels,” Hegseth said.

Zhou Bo, a senior fellow at Tsinghua University and retired PLA colonel, described US-China relations as “complex.”

However, Zhou observed that Hegseth’s tone has improved this year compared to last, attributing this shift partly to Trump’s visit to China.

“Both sides now have open communication channels, and the situation isn’t as dire as outsiders often portray,” Zhou noted.

China, which is again skipping the dialogue for the second year in a row, previously accused Hegseth of making “derogatory remarks” last year.

No Free Rides

Hegseth reiterated President Donald Trump’s stance that allies should bear more of their own defense costs. Trump has previously insisted that European and NATO partners reduce their reliance on Washington.

“The era of the U.S. subsidizing the defense of wealthy nations is over,” Hegseth declared. “We need partners, not protectors. A robust alliance requires everyone to contribute — no freeloading.”

He praised contributions from South Korea, the Philippines, Australia, Singapore, Malaysia, and Thailand, and acknowledged Japan’s efforts to strengthen its defenses.

“Tokyo and Washington must both do their part to fortify the US-Japan alliance,” he emphasized.

Prepared to React on Iran

Regarding Middle East tensions, Hegseth stated the U.S. is ready to restart strikes against Iran if diplomatic negotiations break down, as Washington and Tehran work to bridge their differences and reach an agreement.

“We are fully capable of resuming actions if needed,” he asserted. Trump remains “patient” and seeks a “strong deal” to prevent Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons.

On Friday, Trump announced that he would hold a high-level meeting in the White House to reach a “final decision” on plans to end the conflict in Iran.

Hegseth also dismissed concerns that the Iran issue might divert attention from Asia-Pacific priorities.

“We can handle multiple issues simultaneously.”

U.S. Arms Sales to Taiwan

When queried about arms sales to Taiwan, Hegseth downplayed worries that a large package, potentially worth up to $14 billion, might be affected by the U.S. reducing its weapons stockpiles amid Middle East conflicts. “We are confident in our stockpiles and their utilization,” he said.

Taiwan, which China claims as its territory, has been waiting for U.S. approval on this sale. Recently, Reuters reported the package could total up to $14 billion.

After a meeting with China’s President Xi Jinping this month, Trump created uncertainty by saying he hasn’t decided whether to approve the sale.

Hegseth clarified that any final decision on arms sales rests with the President, signaling that U.S. policy remains unchanged despite recent dialogue with Beijing.

“Decisions depend on the President and the nature of our relationship,” he said. “Our status remains the same.”