Facing the Chinese Communist Party’s massive military expansion in the Western Pacific, the United States has begun to strengthen the construction of military radar systems in the Pacific Island nation of Palau. The two sides also discussed the possibility of deploying Patriot surface-to-air missiles.
President of Palau, Surangel Whipps Jr., told Nikkei Asia News that Palau is too small, and if the United States is not prepared and capable of defending Palau, it could be taken over by others. Palau warmly welcomes the establishment of radar stations on the island by the United States, as this is crucial for Palau’s national security.
Palau became independent from U.S. trusteeship in 1994 and does not have its own military, but under the Compact of Free Association signed with the United States and three other Pacific Island nations, it receives U.S. protection.
The Palau-U.S. military radar project was proposed in 2017, experiencing delays at one point but is now moving forward again. Whipps revealed that one radar station has been constructed and only requires radar installation, with deployment expected to be completed next year.
The U.S. military radar system in Palau is primarily used for detecting aircraft and missiles, enhancing the U.S. military’s surveillance network in the region. Located along the “second island chain,” Palau is considered by China as one of the lines of defense against the United States and is also one of the few countries maintaining diplomatic relations with Taiwan.
Whipps stated that he firmly believes in seeking peace through strength and that if Patriot missiles could be deployed, he could sleep peacefully at night.
In recent years, China has used economic assistance and other means to coerce and lure Pacific Island nations, pressuring them to sever ties with Taiwan. In 2022, China signed a security agreement with the Solomon Islands, leading to Nauru breaking diplomatic relations with Taipei in 2024 before later restoring ties. Palau also faces pressure from China.
China’s research vessel recently entered Palau’s exclusive economic zone without permission, citing typhoon evasion as an excuse. Whipps questioned why, if they were avoiding a typhoon, the Chinese vessel left its equipment in the water and why it was lingering above the submarine cables in Palau’s waters.
Whipps also mentioned that Taiwan is trustworthy, and despite facing pressure from China, Palau will continue to maintain diplomatic relations with Taiwan. While Palau could have diplomatic relations with China without any issues, its friendship with Taiwan is Palau’s choice, and nobody should interfere.
Lastly, Whipps emphasized that the United States is Palau’s most important partner, with close cooperation in both economic and security aspects. In addressing climate change and disasters, Palau also needs assistance from other partners like Japan, Australia, and India.