Pentagon to spend US$12 billion on surveillance over China’s military build-up in Asia

South China Morning Post

by Bloomberg

February 25, 2026

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Pentagon to spend US$12 billion on surveillance over China’s military build-up in Asia

The Pentagon has announced plans to allocate an additional $12.6 billion to bolster surveillance efforts aimed at monitoring China's military activities in Asia. This funding, approved by Congress outside the standard budget process, is intended to enhance U.S. military readiness, offensive cyber capabilities, and surveillance across the Indo-Pacific region. The move reflects a growing focus on countering what officials describe as an "unprecedented Chinese military build-up," particularly in areas like submarine operations and satellite technology. The increased spending highlights the Pentagon's commitment to maintaining a strong presence in the Indo-Pacific, where China's expanding military capabilities are seen as a potential threat to regional stability. This includes efforts to track Chinese military maneuvers more effectively, ensuring U.S. forces can respond swiftly to any developments. The funds will also support initiatives to expand operational reach and improve intelligence-gathering infrastructure. This strategic shift underscores the escalating tensions between the United States and China over military influence in Asia. As China increases its military expenditure and strengthens its presence in the region, the U.S. is stepping up its surveillance and defense capabilities to maintain a balance of power. The investment not only aims to protect U.S. interests but also signals a broader effort to counter China's growing influence across the Indo-Pacific. For readers interested in global affairs, this development underscores the intensifying competition between major powers and its potential impact on regional security dynamics. It highlights how military spending and strategic positioning are key factors in shaping the future of international relations, particularly in Asia.

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Originally published on South China Morning Post on 2/25/2026