Joint Force Quarterly
Abstract
The 2022 United States National Security Strategy prioritized competing with China and this focus seems likely to continue with the new administration.[i] Southeast Asia’s growing economic relevance and proximity to China mean that the US can secure significant gains on numerous goals by focusing on this region. To support developing an appropriate strategy, this paper identifies what features make Southeast Asia relevant to the US, potential flashpoints for conflict, and outlines the characteristics of a potential conflict. With this information the author then proposes specific steps to ensure that the United States military maintains the capability to protect US interests against potential threats. Without a more concerted strategy, the United States in general and the Department of Defense specifically risks losing influence and capability in the most dynamic and rapidly advancing region of the world which could change the balance of global power.
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