Amid growing concerns over Chinese military assertiveness in the Pacific, military leaders from the United States, Japan, Australia, and the Philippines are gravitating towards the concept of “positional advantage.” By leveraging a combination of land and maritime forces, these nations aim to bolster their defenses and stabilize the region. During a recent gathering at the Association of the U.S. Army’s annual Land Forces Pacific conference in Honolulu, key generals discussed their strategic roles in this evolving landscape.
The Role of Key Players
The emphasis on positional advantage is underscored by the strategic positioning of various military units throughout the Pacific. The Japanese Self-Defense Force has established capabilities within the first island chain surrounding China, acting as a frontline defense. Conversely, the Australian Defence Force and the Armed Forces of the Philippines are stationed further out but are primed to use their geographic advantages for surveillance and intelligence-gathering of Chinese movements.
Gen. Ronald Clark, head of U.S. Army Pacific, highlighted that the successful deterrence of potential conflict hinges not solely on American military strength but on close coordination with allies. “It’s not just about the United States Army, it’s not just about our joint force; it’s about our allies and partners,” he affirmed.
Redefining Key Terrain in Modern Warfare
The operational environment has shifted significantly due to advancements in technology, as noted by Lt. Gen. Roy Galido, commanding general of the Philippine Army. Modern warfare no longer relies solely on traditional definitions of terrain; rather, it encompasses a mix of maritime and land-based capabilities. The integration of naval assets into land operations, combined with enhanced strike capabilities, positions these nations better against any potential Chinese aggression.
The strategic dynamic is changing, as territories extend beyond dry land to include maritime zones, where a combination of ships and long-range artillery can hold adversaries at bay.
Continuous Engagement as a Deterrent
For Lt. Gen. Simon Stuart, chief of the Australian Army, the essence of winning the competition phase in any prospective conflict is ongoing, daily military engagement. Australia has begun its 2023 defense review, which gears its military towards acquiring more agile platforms that can operate effectively within littoral zones, the coastal areas that are vital for both land and sea operations.
Acquisitions such as 28 new ships, the largest addition since World War II, will facilitate critical maneuvers across these territories. Moreover, enhanced long-range strike capabilities, including systems like the M142 High Mobility Artillery Rocket Systems (HIMARS), will empower Australia to strike maritime targets directly from land, thereby extending their operational reach.
Japan’s Enhanced Maritime Capabilities
Japan is taking significant steps to elevate its defense posture in the face of regional threats. The nation recently inaugurated its first amphibious unit and launched an advanced amphibious ship, the JS Nihonbare, aimed at restoring logistical capabilities across its extensive island chain. Ultimately, Japan plans to develop a fleet of ten vessels, enhancing its capacity to resupply and operate in critical maritime zones.
This maritime capability is particularly essential for Japan, given its geographical positioning as a buffer against Chinese expansion, which is seen as a pivotal factor for maintaining regional stability.
Training and Allied Cooperation
Allied cooperation is not limited to discussions and strategic plans; it manifests through hands-on training exercises. The Philippine Army, in collaboration with U.S. forces, is investing in developing its antiship strike capabilities. Joint exercises like Balikatan and Valiant Shield have been instrumental in honing these skills, applying concepts of Expeditionary Advanced Base Operations while testing new technologies.
One noteworthy demonstration was the deployment of the Navy-Marine Expeditionary Ship Interdiction System (NMESIS) on Batan Island. As Col. John G. Lehane, commanding officer of the 3rd Marine Littoral Regiment, articulated, this represented a significant leap forward for U.S.-Philippine naval capabilities.
Conclusion
As the geopolitical landscape in the Pacific continues to evolve, the collaborative efforts among the U.S., Japan, Australia, and the Philippines are crucial in countering the growing influence of China. By creating positional advantages through innovative uses of military resources, these nations are not just enhancing their own defense mechanisms, but also ensuring a more stable and secure region.
In a time of uncertainty, it is alliances like these that offer a bulwark against aggression, combining technological advancements with on-the-ground strategy to deter potential conflicts. The collaborative approach, characterized by continuous engagement, strategic positioning, and shared capabilities, may pave the way for a more secure future in the Pacific theater.