As the U.S. and its allies in the Pacific face an aggressive China, bipartisan bill in Senate seeks to strengthen relationships with key countries in region for better protection of supply lines if conflict arises. Senators Romney and Kelly co-introduced legislation to address China’s military advancements and partnerships in Indo-Pacific. Bill would increase oversight over U.S. military logistics in contested environments and strengthen partnerships in region.
Legislation requires Secretary of Defense to assess service branches’ roles in contested logistics environments. Bill also requires report on military services’ capabilities to maintain and repair without dedicated facilities, preposition materials, reduce risks, and enhance operational capabilities. Japan and South Korea to be included in allies providing product support to U.S. in contested logistics environments.
Proposed legislation authorizes Defense Department to conduct maintenance on surface vessels at foreign ports under U.S. Navy pilot program SWaRM. Bill emphasizes criticality of keeping ships operational in Pacific ports for Navy readiness. U.S. Army also adapting logistics strategy for potential conflict with China and deter increased aggression. Army working with allies in exercises to determine supply delivery and placement opportunities in theater.
