A Formal Defense Pact in the Indo-Pacific Is the Wrong Answer (warontherocks.com)

• Ely Ratner proposed a formal Pacific Defense Pact.
• Existing U.S. alliances lack integrated command for major conflict.
• Flexible coalitions are recommended over rigid treaties.

"Ely Ratner, a former senior U.S. defense official, proposed a legally binding Pacific Defense Pact among the U.S., Japan, Australia, and the Philippines. The author argues this formal pact is the wrong approach, as existing alliances function well but lack integrated command for high-intensity conflict. Instead, the U.S. should focus on flexible coalitions and enhanced deterrence through improved operational integration."