Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III hosted Brunei Minister of Defense II Pehin Halbi at the Pentagon today. The meeting underscored the importance of U.S.-Brunei defense relations as the two countries mark 40 years of diplomatic ties.
The discussion focused on enhancing security cooperation, maritime domain awareness, and information sharing. Both officials expressed their commitment to expanding defense cooperation and strengthening their bilateral relationship.
Milestone Agreements
In the past year, the U.S. and Brunei have taken significant steps to deepen their partnership. They signed two key agreements: a new Acquisition Cross-Servicing Agreement (ACSA) in April and a 505 Agreement in December. These agreements are designed to improve logistical support and security assistance between the two nations.
Secretary Austin emphasized that these agreements would bolster their collaboration. “The new Acquisition Cross-Servicing Agreement will enhance our logistical cooperation,” Austin stated. “The 505 Agreement will strengthen our security assistance to Brunei.”
A Strategic Partnership in the Making
The U.S. and Brunei have been working closely together for decades. Their defense cooperation has become a cornerstone of their bilateral relationship. The aim now is to elevate this partnership to a strategic level. “We are working towards a strategic partnership,” Austin noted. “This will enhance our cooperation across a range of shared priorities.”
Joint Military Exercises and Training
Military exercises and training events form a crucial part of the U.S.-Brunei defense relationship. The two countries participate in several joint activities, including the Cooperation Afloat Readiness and Training (CARAT) event. This year marks the 30th iteration of CARAT.
Brunei also takes part in the Southeast Asia Cooperation and Training (SEACAT) event and the biennial Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) exercise. These events help build interoperability and strengthen defense capabilities.
Recent U.S. Military Visits
This month, a U.S. Air Force F-22 Raptor and a C-130 Hercules from Joint Base Langley-Eustis, Virginia, visited Rimba Air Force Base in Brunei. The visit was part of a subject matter expert exchange. It included tours of the aircraft and introductions to their capabilities. The exchange aimed to showcase the F-22’s advanced technology and foster greater understanding between the U.S. and Brunei military forces.
Future Outlook
Secretary Austin and Minister Halbi last met in June at the Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore. Their ongoing discussions highlight the commitment to furthering U.S.-Brunei security cooperation.
“I look forward to discussing common challenges and finding new opportunities to work together,” Austin said. He expressed optimism about the future of their growing partnership. “Our ties will continue to advance our shared vision for a free and open Indo-Pacific.”
Way Forward
The meeting at the Pentagon reflects a robust and evolving defense relationship between the U.S. and Brunei. With new agreements in place and ongoing military collaboration, both nations are set to strengthen their strategic partnership. As they continue to address shared priorities, their cooperation promises to enhance regional stability and security in the Indo-Pacific.
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