Pentagon urges Asian allies defense spending

On August 10, 2026, U.S. Undersecretary of Defense Elbridge Colby, during a forum in Manila, Philippines, urged Asian allies to increase defense spending and take greater responsibility for their own security, emphasizing that the United States seeks 'partners, not protectorates.' Colby reaffirmed Washington's commitment to the region despite its focus on the Iran war, stating that the U.S. is 'digging in' to ensure a favorable balance of power. He avoided direct criticism of China's actions in the South China Sea but reiterated U.S. obligations to defend the Philippines under their mutual defense treaty. Colby praised the Philippines, Thailand, Indonesia, and other allies for their defense modernization efforts. He also repeated Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth's pledge to maintain a strong U.S. defense presence in the Western Pacific. The visit is part of a Southeast Asian tour covering Indonesia, Thailand, and Cambodia.