Austin Begins Indo-Pacific Visit in Alaska > U.S. Department of Defense > Defense Department News
[ad_1]
Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III landed in Fairbanks, Alaska yesterday for a week-long trip to the Indo-Pacific.
It is the secretary’s second trip to the Defense Department’s “priority region” since taking office in January.
“I think it’s going to be a really good visit: you’ll hear me talk a lot about partnerships and the value of partnerships,” Austin told reporters who travel with him. “We believe that we are a stabilizing force. No matter where we are, in which part of the world, we contribute to the stability of the region. Therefore, my goal is to strengthen relations.”
Alaska is a cornerstone of American defense in the Indo-Pacific. The state is home to some of the DOD’s most advanced systems, including F-22 Raptors and F-35 Lightning IIs – fifth generation aircraft capable of commanding any combat compartment. Alaska is also home to ground-based missile defense sites. These systems – manned by members of the Alaska National Guard – are key to America’s defense against rogue states.
Soldiers stationed in Alaska are key to America’s Arctic strategy and an integral part of the Indo-Pacific. Army personnel have worked with allies across the region, conducting exercises and operations with many allies and partners.
Austin continues to Singapore, Vietnam and the Philippines before returning to Washington.
[ad_2]
