China’s assertiveness has already stimulated a series of regional realignments that would have been unthinkable a decade ago. The frontline states in maritime Asia are forging ties with the United States and, significantly, with each other to counter balance China. Washington must take advantage of these relationships and emerging network of ties. Such informal coalitions and formal alliances are a key competitive advantage of the United States, not least because China has few high-quality allies and friends.
Japan and Australia stand out as strategic anchors to the north and south respectively. Notably, Tokyo and Canberra are already drawing closer to each other on a range of security and defense arrangements. Military-to-military ties between the United States and Vietnam represent another useful barometer of the regional configuration of power. Significantly, both sides are arranging a U.S. carrier visit to Vietnam sometime next year.