The Strategic Importance of the U.S. Army in the Pacific Region

The role of the United States Army in the Pacific region has come under scrutiny as recent debates challenge the perception of its relevance in modern deterrence strategies. Retired General Charles Flynn, former commander of U.S. Army Pacific, articulated a strong defense for the Army's integral role in maintaining regional stability during a commentary published on July 2, 2025. Flynn argued that effective deterrence cannot rely solely on maritime and air power; rather, it necessitates a comprehensive approach that includes land forces. This assertion was reinforced during his testimony before the House Select Committee on the Chinese Communist Party, where he highlighted the critical need for robust ground-based capabilities amid the evolving security landscape.

The Indo-Pacific region is characterized by a complex security environment, particularly with China's increasing military assertiveness. According to Flynn, the People's Liberation Army (PLA) relies heavily on its land forces to execute strategic objectives, including a potential invasion of Taiwan. He emphasized that if the PLA Army fails to establish a foothold on land, the broader ambitions of the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) would falter.

This perspective is echoed by Admiral Samuel Paparo, the commander of U.S. Indo-Pacific Command, who has consistently advocated for the importance of ground-based fires as vital deterrence options. Paparo remarked, 'Ground-based fires are increasingly valuable force multipliers' and stressed the necessity of joint logistics hubs, integrated air and missile defense, and resilient communication networks, all of which are supported by Army contributions.

The discourse surrounding the Army's role has intensified in light of recent military exercises across the Pacific, where U.S. Army units engaged in live-fire drills and multinational operations in locations such as the Philippines and Australia. These actions have raised concerns from Beijing, illustrating the Army's evolving footprint in the region. Flynn noted that since 2021, the Army's episodic deployments and prepositioned stocks have expanded significantly, countering claims that the service lacks access beyond traditional bases in Northeast Asia.

Critics, however, caution against over-reliance on any single branch of the military. They argue that the Army must navigate its strategic purpose amid increasing competition for defense budgets and resources among the different branches of the U.S. military. General David Allvin, Chief of Staff of the Air Force, has suggested that one service must grow 'at the expense of others', a viewpoint that Flynn contends undermines the efficacy of joint operations.

The U.S. Army's capabilities are not just confined to traditional ground warfare. Flynn advocates for a transformation initiative that emphasizes the need for a comprehensive strategy, which includes joint interdependencies and reinforces the significance of land power in the Indo-Pacific theater. He posits that a capable, ready Army is essential for deterring peer adversaries and maintaining regional peace and stability.

In a broader context, the strategic landscape in the Indo-Pacific is becoming increasingly complicated. The region is home to multiple land forces, including those of India, Japan, South Korea, and Australia, all of which play critical roles in the U.S. strategic framework. The collaborative nature of these partnerships amplifies the effectiveness of U.S. military presence, reinforcing commitments to collective defense.

As the U.S. Army continues to adapt to the multifaceted challenges presented in the Pacific, it must also reclaim its legacy and remind stakeholders of its contributions to global stability throughout history. Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth has reiterated the importance of a strong Army, stating, 'We will do this through the deterrent power of the strongest, most effective, most lethal fighting force in the world...supported by—and in partnership with—capable, like-minded allies and partners.'

In conclusion, the Army's role in the Pacific is far from marginal. As adversaries probe for weaknesses, a well-integrated military force, inclusive of land capabilities, is crucial for maintaining the balance of power and ensuring the long-term security of the region. The future of U.S. military strategy in the Indo-Pacific will depend on the ability to leverage joint capabilities and partnerships effectively, securing a position of strength against potential threats.