Two former Chinese defense chiefs received suspended death sentences on corruption charges. How is Chinese Communist Party General Secretary Xi Jinping’s ongoing purge affecting the People’s Liberation Army’s readiness? Join the conversation at #IPDF# #China# #IndoPacific#

The U.S. and its Allies and Partners tested a new network platform during Balikatan 2026 that enables forces to integrate operations by securely sharing operational data, intelligence and battlespace information across domains. How could your military benefit from working with the U.S. and the INDOPACOM Mission Network to increase interoperability? Share your thoughts at #IPDF# #Balikatan2026# #IndoPacific#

My latest: The Iran Question Is All About China Why Operation Epic Fury Is the Opening Act of the Indo-Pacific Century The Iran question was never about Iran. Remove the Islamic Republic from the equation and China loses its pawns for a Taiwan contingency. Leave it in place and the Middle East remains what Beijing designed it to be: a second front that Washington can never afford to leave and can never afford to stay in. Trump's strikes are the first move by an American president who appears to understand that the road to the Pacific runs through Tehran.

The 21st Century will be defined by who wins the great powers competition—the United States of America or China. President Trump understands that in order to win we must refocus our defense on the homeland & the Indo-Pacific and stand up for American workers & producers.

A big thank you to @kasphilippines, with special appreciation to @braun_daniela, for organizing the excellent KAS Maritime Security Advisory Network study trip and Brussels programme. It was a highly valuable opportunity to engage directly with European policymakers, diplomats, military officials, and experts on Europe’s security posture and prospects for realistic cooperation with Indo-Pacific partners. In my discussions with the EU Parliament, academic circles, and the German Parliament, I was encouraged to see that Europe remains deeply committed to the rule of law and international law. While they are currently focused on addressing serious security threats closer to home — they clearly understand the strategic importance of supporting the Indo-Pacific region. This support is essential to prevent any country from bullying others or violating international law, and to uphold the rules-based international order. That said, translating this understanding into tangible actions and concrete commitments — beyond just supportive words — will understandably take some time given their current priorities. I look forward to continued dialogue and building meaningful cooperation in areas such as upholding international maritime law and protecting critical maritime infrastructure.