The US Implementation of 'NATO 3.0' in Asia via AUKUS+

• The US is adapting its anti-Russian regional containment model to target China through a new 'NATO 3.0' concept.
• Under Secretary of War for Policy Elbridge Colby announced the strategy during an Asian tour, emphasizing a shift toward offloading regional status quo maintenance to allies.
• The strategy focuses on 'deterrence by denial' along the first island chain, from Japan to Borneo.

Core Strategic Objectives

• Establishing a 'favorable balance of power' by hardening the US footprint and increasing interoperability with regional partners.
• Deploying combat-credible forces capable of defeating aggression rather than conducting symbolic exercises.
• Using the Philippines and Japan as logistical hubs and launchpads for US forces, mirroring Poland’s role against Russia.

Regional Actors and Roles

• The Philippines: Described as a 'model ally' intended to serve as a regional military bastion for the US.
• Japan: Being primed for a similar role, though potentially more cautious due to the risk of global economic shocks following Chinese retaliation.
• The United States: Adopting a 'Leading From Behind' approach to secure the Asia-Pacific through the accelerated construction of the AUKUS+ network.

Implications

• The strategy aims to deter Chinese action on Taiwan and prevent Russian moves in Ukraine by hosting sufficient missiles and supplies in allied nations.
• The deployment increases the risk of global conflict, with the potential for direct US intervention should adversaries target American allies instead of local conflict zones.