Pentagon Chief Flags ‘Alarm’ Over China’s Expansion, Urges Asian Allies to Boost Defence Spending

US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth on Saturday urged Asian allies to significantly increase military spending and strengthen regional deterrence, warning about China’s expanding military capabilities and growing influence in the Indo-Pacific.

Speaking at the Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore, a major security forum attended by defence officials and military leaders, Hegseth said a stronger and more self-reliant alliance structure was essential to maintain regional stability.

He expressed concern over what he described as China’s rapid military build-up and expanding operations across the region, saying there was “rightful alarm” over Beijing’s activities.

A Pacific region dominated by any single power would undermine balance and stability, he said, adding that no country should be allowed to impose hegemony in the region.

Hegseth called on allies to raise defence spending to 3.5% of GDP and highlighted planned US military investment of around $1.5 trillion, while reiterating Washington’s push for greater burden-sharing among partners.

At the same time, he said many regional partners were focused on maintaining stability rather than escalation, stressing the importance of “disciplined strength” and steady leadership in managing tensions.

On US-China relations, Hegseth said communication channels between the two militaries had improved, with more frequent contact helping manage risks despite ongoing strategic rivalry.

Reiterating the Trump administration’s position on defence contributions, he said the US would no longer shoulder a disproportionate share of allied security costs.

He praised defence efforts by countries including South Korea, the Philippines, Australia, Singapore, Malaysia and Thailand, and noted Japan’s steps to enhance its military capabilities.

On Taiwan, Hegseth said US arms stockpiles remained sufficient and that any future arms sales decisions would be made by President Donald Trump, adding that Washington’s policy had not changed.