US commits to maintaining deterrence across Taiwan Strait
- The U.S. Department of Defense is working to establish a credible deterrence capability across the Taiwan Strait.
- Taiwan is currently experiencing delays in acquiring critical military assets from the U.S., including anti-ship missiles.
- There are significant concerns about America's missile stockpiles, which may undermine security commitments in the region.
On March 30, 2025, U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth addressed the importance of robust deterrence in the Indo-Pacific, specifically across the Taiwan Strait. He emphasized America's commitment to supporting its allies and maintaining readiness against the backdrop of China's aggressive actions. Hegseth acknowledged Japan's partnership and expressed confidence in its military decision-making, though he refrained from urging Tokyo to increase military spending. The discussions highlighted the interconnectedness of U.S. and Japanese defense strategies as each nation navigates rising tensions in the region while ensuring that both remain prepared for any potential conflict over Taiwan. Importance of military readiness was underscored by flawed U.S. stockpiles of critical defense weaponry, with shortages in long-range anti-ship missiles that could critically affect Taiwan's defense capabilities. A recent analysis showed that the U.S. military must increase its anti-ship missile stocks significantly to adequately defend Taiwan against potential Chinese aggression. With dwindling cash reserves devoted to military expansion, U.S. policymakers face pressure to rethink their strategy if they genuinely aim to secure Taiwan's autonomy amid escalating threats. The ongoing discussions among U.S. defense officials have raised concerns regarding America's long-term strategy in the Asia-Pacific region, especially considering President Trump's