Pentagon chief calls Vietnam great partnership example in Indo-Pacific region

“Hanoi is diligently modernizing its maritime capabilities while expanding pragmatic defense cooperation with the United States," the Pentagon chief said.

“Vietnam is a great example of how nations with distinct histories and different political systems can work together in practical ways, advancing discreet efforts where our interests align to maintain a stable regional balance."

Throughout his address, Hegseth reaffirmed Washington’s commitment to security in the Indo-Pacific, stressing that America remains a Pacific nation and the region has profound implications for U.S. security and prosperity.

He emphasized that the 2026 U.S. National Defense Strategy aims to achieve a lasting and favorable balance of power in the Pacific region and to ensure that a Pacific free of any dominant hegemon is secured.

The defense chief said regional security should not rely solely on U.S. military strength.

According to him, a favorable balance of power requires capable allies with real military strength, real industrial capacity, and real political resolve.

“We need partners, not protectorates,” he said, adding that the era of U.S. defense subsidies for wealthy nations is over.

Hegseth introduced the concept of ‘true partners,' which are countries with the capacity and willingness to defend their national interests.

Such nations, he explained, would be prioritized for deeper cooperation, faster arms sales, expanded defense industry collaboration, and broader intelligence sharing.