Ankara: US Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth stated that China plans to "invade" Taiwan in 2027, cautioning that such an action could have significant consequences for both the Indo-Pacific region and the global landscape.

According to Anadolu Agency, Hegseth urged US allies in the region to boost their defense spending during his address at the Shangri-La Dialogue, an important defense and security forum held in Singapore. He highlighted that Chinese President Xi Jinping has instructed the military to prepare for an invasion of Taiwan by 2027. Hegseth emphasized that the People's Liberation Army (PLA) is rapidly building the necessary capabilities and training rigorously for this potential operation.

He stressed the seriousness of the threat posed by China, stating that it could be imminent, but clarified that the US does not seek conflict or dominance over China. Hegseth reiterated the US's desire for peace, ensuring that China cannot dominate the US or its allies and partners. He also accused Beijing of harassing its neighbors in the South China Sea, emphasizing that any attempt to change the status quo by force or coercion is unacceptable.

Hegseth called on Asian and European allies to increase their defense spending to address current dangers and threats. He mentioned that President Donald Trump is aiming to strengthen the US military, proposing a defense budget exceeding $1 trillion next year, which includes advancements in military technology like the new sixth-generation fighter, the F-47, the stealth bomber B-21, and new submarines and destroyers.

Furthermore, Hegseth announced defense cooperation projects under the Partnership for Indo-Pacific Industrial Resilience (PIPIR), a US-initiated forum with 14 allies and partners. The first project involves establishing repair capabilities for P-8 radar systems in Australia, allowing US allies and partners in the Indo-Pacific, including New Zealand and the Republic of Korea, to conduct repairs within the region rather than relying on the US.