US defense chief calls for Asian allies to spend 3.5% of GDP

U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth called on American allies in Asia to significantly increase their military spending to counter China's expanding power, while also delivering a pointed critique of European defense partners. He made the remarks in a keynote address on Saturday at the Shangri-La Dialogue, a major security forum in Singapore.

Hegseth stated there is widespread concern in the region regarding China's historic military buildup and expanding activities. He argued that a Pacific region dominated by any single power would unravel the regional balance of power. To prevent this, he said the United States expects its Asian allies and partners to increase their defense spending to 3.5 percent of their GDP. This call aligns with a pledged U.S. investment of $1.5 trillion in its own military.

The defense secretary framed the U.S. approach as one of disciplined strength aimed at stability, not escalation. He described the American posture as confident leadership that speaks and walks softly while carrying a big stick. Hegseth emphasized that stronger and more self-reliant allies are fundamental to effective deterrence.

Despite the warnings about China's military growth,...