The U.S. defense secretary said there is "rightful alarm" of China's military build up. But he also struck a more moderate tone on U.S.-China relations – and notably sidestepped bringing up Taiwan.

While the US defence chief gave gung-ho speech at last year’s conference, post-summit reset in ties may prompt moderation.

Pete Hegseth issued a warning to US allies, saying the US needs "partners, not protectorates".

His address comes as global tensions remain elevated, with ongoing conflicts in the Middle East and Europe.

Hegseth said that China cannot impose its hegemony on U.S. partners and allies in the region.

Pentagon chief Pete Hegseth has voiced concerns over China's military expansion in the Pacific. He noted widespread alarm across the region regarding China's growing military…

SINGAPORE: US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth on Saturday urged Asian allies to ramp up military spending to counter China’s growing power and prevent its dominance in the region,…

Hegseth was speaking at the Shangri-La Dialogue, which brings together top defence officials and experts from around 45 countries. | World News

US Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth expressed alarm about China's military buildup in Asia. He also said the US expects its Asian allies and partners to increase defense spending…

Pentagon chief Pete Hegseth is the headline speaker at Asia's premier defense summit, which began on Friday with top Chinese officials notably absent despite weighty questions…

Pentagon chief Pete Hegseth struck a measured tone towards China at a major defence forum on Saturday, noting "rightful alarm" over Beijing's military build-up but saying the…

The Pentagon chief, speaking at the Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore said stronger, more self-reliant allies are key to deterrence.

US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth on Saturday urged Asian allies to ramp up military spending to counter China's growing power and prevent its dominance in the region, warning of…

Speaking in Singapore, the US Defence Secretary warned that China's military expansion risks upsetting the balance of power in the Pacific.

Indo-Pacific countries investments in their defense an example of how burden sharing works, says Hegseth

U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth assured Pacific allies Saturday that Washington remains committed to the region while softening past comments that described China as an…

Taiwan arms sales 'decoupled' from Iran war, decision up to Trump: Pentagon chief

The Pentagon chief, in a rare omission, avoided any mention of Taiwan in a speech to Asian officials.

The US Secretary of War addressed Asia's most important defence summit, but did not mention Taiwan as questions remain over a stalled weapons package.

Pete Hegseth urged allies to spend more on defense while warning China over its growing regional influence.

U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth assured Pacific allies Saturday that Washington remains committed to the region while softening past comments that described China as an…