SE North Carolina News

Washington, DC — Senator Ted Budd (R-NC) recently returned from a congressional delegation (CODEL) to Indo-Pacific Command and other U.S. military headquarters and installations in Hawaii and Guam. The purpose of the trip was to assess the military threat posed by China and ensure that the joint force is properly equipped to maintain deterrence in the region.

During the visit, Senator Budd received operational briefings and toured infrastructure projects in order to gain a comprehensive understanding of the current state of affairs. One of the highlights of the trip was the tour of the USS Charlotte (SSN-766), a Los Angeles-class submarine stationed in Pearl Harbor, named after Charlotte, North Carolina.

As a Member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, Senator Budd has been actively working to improve security cooperation with allies and partners, prevent cuts to Army special operations force structure, and prohibit the divestment of critical fighter jets that would leave a gap in our capabilities against China. He has also been pushing for the development of collaborative combat aircraft and has supported the full budget request for the Pacific Deterrence Initiative, the modernization of the U.S. nuclear arsenal, and the procurement of submarines and amphibious transport docks.

In a statement, Senator Budd emphasized the importance of maintaining deterrence in the Indo-Pacific region. He stated, "There is no doubt that the Joint Force retains the strategic advantage and, alongside our allies and partners, is postured to maintain deterrence in the Indo-Pacific. Maintaining deterrence, however, requires constant vigilance and significant investment in our military infrastructure and posture in the region. As a member of the Armed Services Committee, I am committed to ensuring our military has the resources and authorities necessary to secure peace through strength for generations to come."

During the CODEL, Senator Budd had the opportunity to meet with commanders and discuss current operations at Indo-Pacific Command and its component commands. They also addressed matters such as service modernization efforts, infrastructure investments, and security cooperation with allies and partners across the region.

In Guam, Senator Budd visited the Headquarters of Joint Region Marianas to discuss the growing military presence on the island. He also viewed the damage caused by Super Typhoon Mawar at Anderson Air Force Base and Naval Base Guam. Additionally, he conducted oversight of major military construction projects at Camp Blaz, which will accommodate the relocation of 5,000 U.S. Marines to the strategically located U.S. territory.

Senator Budd made it a point to engage with local officials and stakeholders during his visit. He met with the Governor and Lieutenant Governor of Guam, as well as the local Chamber of Commerce, to discuss ongoing construction projects, federal regulatory constraints, logistical issues, and the quality of life for military families and other residents of the island.

Senator Budd's CODEL to Indo-Pacific Command and his subsequent efforts in the Senate reflect his dedication to maintaining peace and security in the region. By actively engaging with military leaders, visiting installations, and advocating for necessary resources, he is ensuring that the Joint Force remains prepared to address the challenges posed by China and other potential threats in the Indo-Pacific.

To find out more, go to this link: https://www.budd.senate.gov/2023/10/20/senator-budd-returns-from-codel-to-indo-pacific-command/