The Thickening Web of Asian Security Cooperation: Deepening Defense Ties Among U.S. Allies and Partners in the Indo-Pacific

U.S. allies and partners in the Indo-Pacific have been broadening and deepening their defense ties with regional partners over the past two decades. This report highlights the extent to which these initiatives are a response to the perceived threat of a rising, assertive China; points out the importance of understanding the motivations involved in expanding regional security partnerships; and highlights key areas for building partner capacity.