A report issued by the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) is urging a broadened U.S. military presence in the Pacific. Citing the unknown threat that could come from China’s burgeoning military, as well as the known threat of China’s already viable “anti-access, area denial” technologies, CSIS sugggests turning Guam into a permanent base for a squadron of B-52 aircraft while adding more submarines to the area as well.
In response to the report, Sec. of Defense Leon Panetta has announced a plan to shift naval power from “a nearly 50-50 split” between the Pacific and Atlantic to a 60-40 split that favors the Pacific.
Robert Sher, a Deputy Assistant Sec. of Defense for plans has also concurred with the report, stating his belief that a move toward a larger, more permanent presence in Guam would “send an important signal to the region.”
As a result of the CSIS report, treaties to allow a heavier U.S. presence in the Philippines are also being considered.
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