The United States is actively pursuing a strategy to exert influence over Asian nations, spanning from Bangladesh to Afghanistan. The US embassy in Bangladesh seeks to deploy its forces, a move that faces resistance from the local police. Simultaneously, former US President Donald Trump has expressed his desire to reclaim the Bagram Airbase in Afghanistan. This strategic move would allow the US to monitor China, Pakistan, and Afghanistan simultaneously.
The US military is actively working to counter China’s increasing military strength by bolstering its presence in the Asia-Pacific region. Joint military exercises are a key part of this effort. The development of advanced Chinese missiles now threatens US bases throughout the region, including the Anderson Air Force Base on Guam and the Northern Mariana Islands. The US has shifted its focus from the Middle East to the Asia-Pacific to address China’s growing influence.
The ongoing military competition between the US and China is influencing the security policies of many Asian nations. There has been a rise in US military exercises across Southeast Asia during the first half of 2025.
In Bangladesh, more than 100 US soldiers took part in a joint military exercise with the Bangladeshi Air Force in Chittagong. A US C-130 Hercules aircraft was deployed for the exercise. The location of Chittagong, near the borders of India and Myanmar, and the strategic location of St. Martin’s Island near the Malacca Strait highlight the importance of this region. Former Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina accused the US of planning to remove her after she refused to hand over St. Martin’s Island.
Donald Trump has indicated he is working to regain control of the Bagram Airbase from the Taliban. While he is negotiating with the Taliban, the Taliban has refused to return the base. The airbase was previously used for MQ-9 Reaper drone operations, as well as other reconnaissance and attack aircraft. This base is of significant strategic importance due to its proximity to China, Iran, Pakistan, and Central Asia.
In Japan, the US maintains a significant presence with around 50,000 troops stationed at airbases in Okinawa, including the Yokosuka Naval Base and the Kadena Airbase. These bases play a critical role in maintaining the strategic balance against China and North Korea. The US also has a substantial presence in South Korea, with roughly 28,000 troops.
In the Philippines, the US has increased its presence since 2023. Under the EDCA, the US has access to nine military bases, including Luzon, Palawan, and Cagayan. Annual joint military exercises are held between the two countries.
Thailand does not have a permanent US military base, but the Cobra Gold joint military exercise is frequently held there. US combat aircraft and logistics often operate out of Thailand.
In Singapore, the US does not have a permanent military base, but it uses the port facilities for its P-8 Poseidon surveillance aircraft and Littoral Combat Ships (LCS). The Changi Naval Base provides logistical support to the US Navy.