Australia has publicly challenged China over its “extraordinary” military buildup, with Defense Minister Richard Marles demanding greater transparency and warning that Beijing’s growing arsenal is destabilizing the Asia-Pacific region.

Speaking at the Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore, Marles stated: “What we have seen from China is the single biggest increase in military capability since the Second World War.” He stressed that while building military strength is not inherently problematic, China's opacity and lack of strategic intent are what raise alarms.

Australia contrasted its own defense transparency—publishing strategies and reviews—with China’s secrecy, urging Beijing to explain its motivations and reassure regional states.

U.S. and Philippines Warn of Escalating Threat

The dialogue, typically dominated by U.S.-China dynamics, took a confrontational turn as Beijing sent only a low-level delegation and skipped its speech. U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth called China’s actions an “imminent threat” to Taiwan, accusing Beijing of seeking regional hegemony.

Philippines Defense Minister Gilberto Teodoro Jr. went further, labeling China “absolutely irresponsible and reckless,” especially in its behavior in the South China Sea. He emphasized the global importance of maintaining a rules-based international order, aligning with smaller democracies like Lithuania and Latvia.

South China Sea Incidents and AUKUS Context

Australia has clashed with China over military exercises near its waters, which Marles described as “disruptive.” While he acknowledged that Beijing acted within international law, he underscored the need for “compliance with a rules-based order.”

Marles reaffirmed Australia’s commitment to defense investment, noting that part of this will come via the AUKUS pact, including the nuclear-powered submarine program and expanded U.S. naval rotations through Perth.

China Pushes Back, Accuses West of Hypocrisy

China responded to the summit with strong language, accusing the U.S. of defaming Beijing and being the true hegemonic power. Beijing also rejected French President Macron’s comparison of Taiwan to Ukraine, insisting that the Taiwan issue is an internal affair.

With tensions rising across the region, Australia’s direct challenge marks a shift in tone, signaling its growing alignment with U.S. and regional allies concerned about China’s trajectory.