A bill to require the Secretary of Defense to develop and implement a strategy to strengthen multilateral deterrence in the Indo-Pacific region.

# Bill Summary: Indo-Pacific Deterrence Strategy **What the Bill Would Do** This bill would require the Secretary of Defense to create and carry out a strategy aimed at strengthening military cooperation and deterrence among multiple countries in the Indo-Pacific region. In practical terms, this means the Defense Department would need to develop a plan for how the U.S. and its allies can work together more effectively to discourage potential military aggression in Asia and the Pacific. **Who It Affects** The bill primarily affects the Department of Defense and its planning efforts. More broadly, it could impact U.S.

relations with Indo-Pacific allies like Japan, South Korea, Australia, and India, as well as influence regional stability. The bill doesn't directly affect American civilians or domestic policy. **Current Status** The bill (S 2669) was introduced by Senator Michael Bennet (D-Colorado) in the 119th Congress and is currently in committee, meaning it hasn't yet been debated or voted on by the full Senate. It has not advanced further in the legislative process at this time.