The United States and Australia have agreed to strengthen defence cooperation, including plans to expand U.S. military presence in Australia and enhance regional security cooperation in the Pacific.
Defence Minister Richard Marles disclosed this in Washington, D.C., following a meeting with U.S. Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth.
Marles said, “American force posture in Australia is growing,” and is on the rise across every domain.
Marles stated that the arrangement was vital for stabilising security and Australia’s national interest; however, he did not confirm if more U.S. troops would be stationed in the country.
READ MORE: Australia Summons Israel Envoy Over Aid Worker DeathsHegseth explained that the two countries’ defence strategies show “strong alignment,” stressing that allies must invest in their own security while ensuring compatible defence capabilities.
Australia and the U.S. have also pledged $580 million for Pacific Island nations, as China expands influence through grants, infrastructure and aid.
Under the U.S. and Australia Force Posture Initiatives, U.S. forces can train and store equipment in Australia, including rotational aircraft deployments and logistics support for U.S. vessels.
