Pacific Ocean. (August 22, 2012): In this U.S. Navy photo, the decommissioned frigate USS Rodney M. Davis is fired upon and sunk during Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) exercises in the Southwest Pacific. These sinking exercises help member nations gain proficiency in tactics, targeting, and live firing against surface targets at sea. Australians are alarmed at a recent cooperation agreement between China and the Solomon Islands that they fear could lead to Chinese military bases just 1,200 miles of their coast.
Canberra, Australia. (August 22, 2022): Australians, one of America’s oldest allies, are increasingly alarmed at aggressive moves by China in the Taiwan Strait that threatens their national security. In a recently released annual survey by the Lowly Institute, a highly respected Australian Research organization, 46% of respondents say China is a growing threat to their security.
Recent events, including China’s overreaction to visits by U.S. dignitaries to Taiwan, have clearly rattled Australians whose sense of security has dropped dramatically from 70% in 2016 down to 53% in 2022, a 17-point drop in six years. Along with a sense of insecurity, Australians are worried about a potential U.S. conflict with China over Taiwan, with 64% saying such a skirmish between superpowers poses a critical threat to world order according to the Lowly Institute’s assessment.
The Aussies have reasons to be concerned.
In May of last year, the Chinese signed a cooperation agreement with the Solomon Islands that alarmed American and Australian leaders. While not authorizing military bases, the accord allows greater access by Chinese warships to the Solomons and greater economic ties. Both the U.S. and Australia have told the Solomon Islands’ leaders that a Chinese military presence would not be tolerated.
The Solomon Islands were colonized by Britain in 1893 and it wasn’t until 1978 that they gained their independence. When U.S. forces invaded the islands in 1942, including the bloody Battle for Guadalcanal, they did so to halt Japan’s advance toward Australia. Strategically located just 1,200 miles from Australia’s north coast, the Solomons continue to be a vital defense perimeter in the Southwest Pacific. This is why the U.S./Aussie defense relationship is so critical and explains the expanding presence of American warships operating in the Southwest Pacific.
American servicemembers from all branches are currently deployed to Australia and her surrounding waters to halt any Chinese threats to regional security. As these brave Americans are deployed far from home, it is vital we show our support for them and their families by contributing funds for our Yellow Ribbon Care Packages to boost morale. By donating to our Patriot Brigade®, you will join thousands of patriots who make monthly donations that pay for comfort items and recreational programs for our military deployed around the world. Please go to our secure website https://supportourtroops.org/donate to contribute to America’s finest today!