US Defense Chief Hegseth Reaffirms Singapore Ties at Shangri-La, May 30

US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth arrived in Singapore on May 29 to attend the 23rd Shangri-La Dialogue, where he met with Prime Minister Lawrence Wong and Defense Minister Chan Chun Sing. The meetings reaffirmed the 60-year Singapore-US defense partnership and discussed regional security challenges. Hegseth is leading a US delegation that includes Indo-Pacific Command chief Admiral Samuel Paparo and will deliver remarks on the US strategy for Indo-Pacific peace on May 30.

Hegseth Meets Singapore Leaders at Security Summit

US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth held talks with Prime Minister Lawrence Wong at the Istana on May 29, with Defense Minister Chan Chun Sing and Minister of State for Defence Desmond Choo also present. The pair noted the 60th anniversary of Singapore-US diplomatic relations and reaffirmed their “mutually beneficial and longstanding bilateral defence partnership.” They exchanged views on geopolitical developments and regional security issues, emphasizing shared commitment to regional peace, stability and prosperity.

US Affirms Support for Singapore Armed Forces Training

Hegseth affirmed the US’ continued support for Singapore Armed Forces training in the United States and technology access. Prime Minister Wong highlighted Singapore’s longstanding support for the US military presence in the region. Hegseth also met Defense Minister Chan for lunch at Shangri-La Hotel on May 29 afternoon to discuss global and regional security developments and strengthen defense cooperation between both countries.

Hegseth Addresses Troops Aboard USS Boxer

Hegseth arrived in Singapore around 3:15 a.m. on May 29 aboard a US Air Force Boeing 747-E4B and spent the morning aboard the amphibious assault ship USS Boxer (LHD-4) for a physical training session with sailors and marines. The USS Boxer pulled into Singapore on May 19 and is berthed at Sembawang Shipyard. The Boxer Amphibious Ready Group includes USS Comstock (LSD-45), USS Portland (LPD-27) and the 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit.

Broader Regional Engagement and China’s Absence

Hegseth met with defense ministers and leaders from multiple countries including Vietnam, Thailand and others during the summit. Hegseth reaffirmed the US commitment to maintaining deterrence in the Indo-Pacific. China’s Minister of National Defense skipped the summit for the second consecutive year, with China instead represented by officers from defense training institutions. The summit also included meetings with French defense officials to discuss military training, defense technology and cybersecurity cooperation.

Final Thoughts

Hegseth’s visit signals sustained US commitment to Singapore and the Indo-Pacific region during a period of rising geopolitical tensions. The reaffirmed defense partnership and military presence underscore US strategy to maintain regional stability and deterrence.

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