Why the U.S. is deepening military ties with Australia

The United States is accelerating military cooperation with Australia as both countries respond to China’s growing military presence in the IndoPacific. Recent talks in Washington included U.S. Secretary of War Pete Hegseth and Australian Deputy Prime Minister and Defence Minister Richard Marles, who said the alliance is central to Australia’s security. The relationship already includes U.S. troop rotations, a remote intelligence base in Australia and expanding joint exercises. Analysts say Australia’s geography makes it a valuable base for U.S. operations across the Indian Ocean and toward the South China Sea and Taiwan Strait. The timing also comes as the two countries mark 75 years of the ANZUS security treaty. Australia says the partnership will soon expand further through AUKUS, including rotations of U.S. nuclearpowered submarines starting next year, even as some critics at home question the cost and scope of the deal.