Northern Mariana Islands governor says ‘the world is changing in the Indo-Pacific’ as work continues in the US territory on defense development

Summary

The U.S. plans to invest $800 million in military upgrades on Tinian, part of the Northern Mariana Islands, to bolster its Indo-Pacific defense strategy amid growing tensions with China.

The development includes rehabilitating a WWII-era airfield, building training facilities, and upgrading port infrastructure.

Governor Arnold Palacios supports the project, citing regional security concerns, including China’s missile tests and military activity near Taiwan.

Tinian’s strategic location serves as a backup to Guam and enhances U.S. power projection.

Critics note the upgrades’ potential vulnerability in a conflict. Completion is expected by 2025.