U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has proposed an ambitious new defence framework between the United States and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), seeking to strengthen regional security cooperation amid growing strategic competition in the Indo-Pacific.

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Speaking on Wednesday, October 28, 2026, during the ASEAN Defence Ministers' Meeting in Cebu, central Philippines, Hegseth told regional leaders that the proposed framework could help them navigate what he described as critically important years ahead.

The proposal comes as Washington continues efforts to expand its defence partnerships across the Indo-Pacific. The United States has repeatedly emphasised its commitment to maintaining what it calls a “free and open Indo-Pacific” as China's military and strategic influence in the region grows.

Closer defence cooperation with ASEAN countries could provide a platform for greater coordination on regional security challenges. However, further details about the proposed framework, including its specific commitments and implementation plans, were not provided in the available report.

The initiative highlights the importance Washington places on its relationships with Southeast Asian nations at a time of intensifying geopolitical competition.

ASEAN members have differing security priorities and relationships with major powers, making regional cooperation an important but complex diplomatic challenge. The proposal's future will depend on the details of the framework and the willingness of participating countries to support deeper defence collaboration.