Brig. Gen. Anthony J. Mastalir, the commander of United States Space Forces Indo-Pacific, emphasized the importance of working with regional allies to deter adversaries and maintain a rules-based international order. In a discussion at the Mitchell Institute for Aerospace Studies, Mastalir highlighted the transition from bilateral exercises to more multilateral engagements in the Indo-Pacific region. He stressed the significance of demonstrating readiness to fight and win a war as a way to deter conflict, emphasizing the need for ongoing collaboration with allies and partners.
Mastalir explained that the Space Force and U.S. Space Command actively engage with partners at various levels of space-related capability, aiming to bring them along in their journey. He mentioned the progress being made with partners and allies in Asia, including the activation of U.S. Space Forces Korea in December 2022 and plans to activate U.S. Space Forces Japan by the end of the year. Having Space Force components in South Korea and soon Japan facilitates tighter integration with other U.S. military components and host nation militaries, enhancing awareness and collaboration in building space capabilities across the joint force.
The shift from bilateral to more multilateral exercises in the Indo-Pacific region was highlighted by Mastalir, who noted the shared interest of partner and ally countries in protecting the rules-based international order. He referenced the development and progress of nations like Japan and South Korea since World War II, emphasizing their commitment to preserving a free and open Indo-Pacific. Mastalir reiterated the importance of demonstrating preparedness and working closely with allies to deter potential adversaries and maintain stability in the region.
Overall, Brig. Gen. Mastalir’s discussion underscored the critical role of collaboration with regional allies in deterring conflict and upholding international norms in the Indo-Pacific. By engaging with partners at different levels of capability and facilitating integration through Space Force components in key locations, the U.S. Space Forces are working towards a more unified and prepared approach to space operations in the region. The commitment to multilateral engagements and the preservation of a rules-based international order reflect a shared interest among partner countries in maintaining peace and security in the Indo-Pacific.
