Asia-Pacific Pivot: The Enhancement of the US Military Presence in the Phillippines
Abstract
The main purpose of this research paper is to put the US-Philippine military and political relationship into perspective by identifying how the US bases at key strategic locations on the Philippines will deter and slow the expansionist powers of China in the Asia-Pacific region and in the South China Sea. By determining and assessing the aim of slowing and restraining Chinas expansionist mentality, the paper is able to address the future political and military implications for both the United States and the Philippines. Understanding the dilemma of the Philippines and its neighboring countries in the South China Sea leads to the argument of deterrence and whether it is feasible to re-establish US bases at significant strategic locations in the Philippines. This paper employs the problem/solution framework to evaluate the political relationships and history. Key recommendations are supported in the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA), which supports the US construct of five military installations at key strategic locations in which the United States could rapidly respond to any conflict in the South China Sea, mainly in the vast regional waters wherein China has increased its military build-up, its military activities, and construction of artificial islands in the contested maritime territories in the Spratlys.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Feb 27, 2017
- Accession Number
- AD1054662
Entities
People
- Jet R Alejo
Organizations
- Air Command and Staff College