Defense Secretary Responds to China’s Concerns Over Space Policy
Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth has dismissed China’s assertion that the U.S. is turning space into a “war zone.” He emphasized, “What we really care about is protecting our hometown,” during a visit to Fort Bragg in North Carolina.
Former President Donald Trump has previously underscored the importance of local defense in his “America First” agenda, noting that investments like the Golden Dome project are crucial for future generations.
This week, Chinese Foreign Minister Mao Zhe criticized the Golden Dome initiative, claiming it has an aggressive nature and goes against the peaceful utilization principles of the Space Treaty.
Mao stated that, “The project will turn space into war zones, create races for a Space Force, and heighten risks to international security and weapon management systems.” He urged the U.S. to halt the development and deployment of global anti-missile systems.
Hegseth, alongside Trump, provided insights into the project, outlining plans for a missile defense shield with a budget of $125 billion over three years.
He also addressed reactions to his decision to initiate a monthly Christian prayer service at the Pentagon. “Appealing to God is a long-standing tradition in our military,” he remarked. “If people want to criticize it, they’re on the wrong side.”
His comments came as he spoke to the 82nd Airborne Division during “National American Week,” where he announced the renaming of Fort Bragg to Fort Liberty, although he expressed a fondness for the old name.
He was met with cheers as he proclaimed, “It’s Fort Bragg again. Give me a Fort Bragg every week.” In addition, he pushed back against critics who questioned his strategic experience as Secretary of Defense, stating, “Some might say, ‘Critics don’t choose an Army major to become Secretary of Defense.’
Hegseth addressed a gathering of Army Air Troopers, sharing a moment of reflection while underlining the importance of maintaining a strategic perspective. He humorously described a moment when he felt stuck, unable to move while focusing on the bigger picture.
During his visit, he announced an increase in jump pay for paratroopers, raising the “Jump Pay” from $150 to $200 a month for those jumping from planes, while the pay for jumpmasters would rise from $150 to $300. “These individuals perform challenging tasks in complex situations that most Americans can’t even fathom,” Hegseth stated.
General Gregory Anderson, who leads the 18th Airborne Corps, shared that the Army currently has 56,756 paid paratrooper positions, but this number will decrease by 20,000, allowing for better pay for those who maintain jump status. He indicated that limited aircraft availability and resources could lead to decreased proficiency, emphasizing that quality should take precedence over quantity.
