US defence strategy banks on strength – not confrontation – to deny China in Indo-Pacific

South China Morning PostCenter-RightEN 1 min read 100% complete by Mark Magnier,Amber WangJanuary 24, 2026 at 08:51 AM

AI Summary

short article 1 min

The US Defence Department released its national strategy outlining security approaches for the next four years, prioritizing deterrence over confrontation in the Indo-Pacific region. The strategy aims to prevent China from dominating the US or its allies by establishing a strong defensive presence along the first island chain, stretching from Japan to the Philippines. The US will encourage regional allies to increase their contributions to collective defense, reinforcing deterrence through a united front. Simultaneously, the department will pursue increased military communication with China's People's Liberation Army to support strategic stability, de-escalation, and conflict resolution. The primary goal is to protect the US homeland and hemisphere while maintaining peace and restraint in the Indo-Pacific.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

Beijing 30% Pacific 40% People's Liberation Army 40% Taiwan 50% Japan 50% Philippines 50% Defence Department ×270% Indo-Pacific 70% China ×280% United States ×490%

Keywords

us defence strategy 90% indo-pacific 80% china 80% deterrence 70% military communications 60% allies 60% first island chain 50% strategic stability 50% people's liberation army 40%