The United States Secretary of Defense has urged Asian countries to increase their military spending to enhance regional deterrence against China, which he said was “rehearsing for the real deal” concerning a potential takeover of Taiwan.

Speaking at the Shangri-la Dialog in SINGAPORE on Saturday, Pete Hegseth reaffirmed commitments to bolster the US presence in the Indo-Pacific. He also detailed new joint projects,including expanded access to military ship and aircraft repair facilities,notably in Australia.

“US allies in the Indo-Pacific can and should upgrade their own defences,” hegseth stated.

He emphasized the need for clarity regarding Beijing’s intentions. “It has to be clear to all that Beijing is credibly preparing to potentially use military force to alter the balance of power in the Indo-Pacific … There’s no reason to sugar coat it. The threat China poses is real, and it could be imminent.”

Hegseth noted that the Donald Trump management had previously “pushed European countries to boost their defensive spending” to shoulder a greater burden in regional conflicts, suggesting it was now Asia’s turn to follow suit.

Referring to past remarks where he described Europe as “pathetic” and “freeloading” on US security, Hegseth acknowledged the irony, urging Asian nations to “look to allies in Europe as a newfound example”.

“Deterrence doesn’t come on the cheap … time is of the essence.”

Asian Defense Spending on the Rise

“It has to be clear to all that Beijing is credibly preparing to potentially use military force.”

A recent study by the International Institute for strategic Studies, which organizes the Singapore Dialogue, revealed that Asian investment in weapons and research is sharply increasing, exceeding the consistent annual average of 1.5% of GDP.

Hegseth stated that Europe’s renewed focus on its own region, particularly due to the Russia-Ukraine war, allows the US to prioritize the Indo-Pacific.

He clarified that the US is not seeking to “pressure” Asian countries into adopting specific policies or ideologies, but rather aims to “work with you where our shared interests align for peace and prosperity”.

“We’re not here to preach to you about climate change or cultural issues,” he said.”But a threat gathers.”

“We do not seek conflict with Communist China. We will not seek to instigate, subjugate or humiliate China. President Trump and US have an immense respect for China and their civilisation. but we will not be pushed out of this critical region.”

Hegseth also pointed out the absence of a senior Chinese delegate at the conference, stating, “We are here this morning and, notably, someone else isn’t.”

He also alluded to comments made by French President Emmanuel Macron, who suggested that a perceived lack of steadfastness from the US was creating instability.