Overview
- Speaking at the Reagan National Defense Forum, the defense secretary said allies that step up will earn “special favor” while those that do not will face consequences.
- He described 3.5 percent of GDP for core military outlays as the new global standard as U.S. and Australian ministers head into AUSMIN talks in Washington.
- South Korea’s commitment to reach 3.5 percent was codified in a joint fact sheet after Trump’s October summit with President Lee Jae Myung in Gyeongju.
- The White House this week released a National Security Strategy that emphasizes defending the homeland, reasserting power in the Western Hemisphere, deterring conflict over Taiwan, and expanding burden sharing.
- Hegseth said the U.S. seeks to deter China through strength and stable relations, while senior budget and Navy officials flagged production and shipbuilding shortfalls that could constrain AUKUS submarine timelines.