During his address at the Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore on Saturday, Hegseth warned that China is rehearsing for a potential takeover of Taiwan and emphasized that the threat posed by Beijing is both real and potentially imminent.

Hegseth outlined the Trump administration's commitment to augmenting the US presence in the Indo-Pacific, highlighting new joint projects, such as expanding access to military ship and plane repair facilities, including those in Australia. He stressed the importance of regional allies upgrading their defensive capabilities, remarking, "It has to be clear to all that Beijing is credibly preparing to potentially use military force to alter the balance of power in the Indo-Pacific."

Drawing parallels to the administration's previous efforts in Europe, Hegseth compared the situation to how European nations were encouraged to increase their defense spending to handle regional conflicts. He urged Asian countries to follow the example of their European counterparts to enhance collective deterrence. A recent study by the International Institute for Strategic Studies revealed a spike in Asian defense spending, currently averaging around 1.5% of GDP annually.

During his speech, Hegseth pointed out that the increased focus of European countries on regional conflicts, such as the Russia-Ukraine war, has allowed the US to shift its attention more towards the Indo-Pacific, which he described as the US's "priority theatre." He clarified that the US does not aim to pressure Asian nations into adopting specific policies or ideologies but seeks to collaborate based on shared interests for peace and prosperity.

Hegseth also criticized the absence of senior Chinese delegates at this year's conference, saying, "We are here this morning and, notably, someone else isn't." He addressed comments made by French President Emmanuel Macron regarding the perceived instability due to potentially wavering US alliances. Hegseth asserted, "An alliance cannot be ironclad if in reality or perception it is one-sided."

Hegseth revealed that the US would be conducting its first-ever live-fire test of its mid-range capability system in Australia in the coming months. He also announced expanded cooperation and joint exercises, as well as establishing new repair capabilities for P-8 radar systems in Australia for US and allied forces, and increasing regional ship repair contracts.

Hegseth's address reaffirmed the Trump administration's stance on defense and security, criticizing previous administrations and pledging to enhance US military strength and border security. He mentioned a $1 trillion defense budget for next year, which includes a 13% increase, and plans to advance controversial weapons programs.

However, US Democratic Senator Tammy Duckworth, who spoke after Hegseth, described his language as patronizing. She stressed the importance of collaboration with Indo-Pacific allies and highlighted the growing bipartisan support for the region in the US legislature. Duckworth emphasized that the US is committed to maintaining international norms without forcing countries to choose sides.