US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth has commended Australia and several other US allies for increasing their defence contributions, describing them as “stepping up” in response to growing regional security challenges.

Speaking in Singapore, Hegseth simultaneously urged Asian partners to significantly boost military spending in order to counter China’s expanding military capabilities and influence in the Indo-Pacific region.

He warned that the rapid build-up of Chinese forces has created what he described as “rightful alarm” among US allies, and stressed that greater collective defence investment is necessary to prevent any single power from dominating the region.

While praising Australia’s increased defence commitment, Hegseth criticised countries that he suggested were relying too heavily on the United States, arguing against what he described as “freeloading” on American taxpayers.

His comments reflect ongoing US pressure on allies to share a larger portion of the financial and operational burden of regional security arrangements.The remarks were made during a broader diplomatic push to reinforce US alliances in Asia amid rising geopolitical tensions.Australia was highlighted as an example of a partner that is responding positively to calls for greater defence readiness.

The speech also underscored Washington’s strategic focus on maintaining a balance of power in the Indo-Pacific and strengthening deterrence against potential conflict scenarios involving China and other regional actors.

Overall, the address combined praise for allied contributions with a firm warning that continued US support would depend on sustained and increased defence investment from partner nations.