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The new strategic emphasis on the Asia-Pacific region poses a new set of challenges for the U.S. military, ranging from cyberspace attacks to missile defense in a large-scale conflict. Meeting these challenges will require a new approach to coalition building as well as a shift in technology procurement. And, the relationship among the United States, China and their neighbors will weigh heavily on all efforts for regional security. 

Many of these points were discussed on the first day of TechNet Asia-Pacific 2012, being held in Honolulu, Hawaii, November 13-15. Titled “Rebalancing Toward the Asia-Pacific—Challenges and Opportunities,” the conference began with a direct focus on the key issues that define those challenges.

The land down under looks westward when it contemplates geopolitical issues around the Pacific.

A new mission for the military in the Asia-Pacific region will require different technologies for the force.

Too much data security can be as much of a problem as too much secrecy when it comes to cyberspace operations.

Most of the Pacific Command’s mission will focus on aiding others in need rather than warfighting efforts.

Keeping assets safe from air and missile attack will require a coordinated defense coupled with a dispersal strategy.

Under a new U.S. Asia-Pacific doctrine, friends don’t force friends to choose between Pacific superpowers. Nations can be friendly with both China and the United States.

Previous Asia military operations dealt with one or two warfighting domains; but that was a luxury that no longer is available.

Congressional action that limited U.S. activities with human rights violators is hurting Pacific Command efforts to build regional coalitions.

The U.S. Pacific Command is considering new ways of countering the growing Chinese ballistic missile threat.