US Pacific Bases in Disrepair
Pentagon inspector general warns of severe decay at 11 facilities, citing corrosion, mould and asbestos, in a region critical to deterring China
The Pentagon inspector general has warned of severe decay at US military bases across the Pacific region, citing issues such as corrosion, holes in buildings, and the presence of mould and asbestos. The warning was issued in an emergency management advisory to flag issues that need immediate attention, particularly in deterring China.
The advisory, issued by Randolph Stone, assistant inspector general for evaluations, on August 6, relayed concerns to a dozen senior Defence Department officials. The issues affect infrastructure essential to US forces' preparedness as well as troop and family facilities. Inspections of 11 US facilities across the Pacific region found problems such as corrosion, holes in buildings, falling ceilings, and the presence of mould and asbestos.
Many of the buildings at the US Pacific bases date back to the 1970s, highlighting the need for urgent attention. The inspector-general identified concerns related to other critical infrastructure, such as water and housing infrastructure, supporting missions across the US Pacific Command.
Mark Sinder, the deputy assistant for infrastructure modernisation, said that Military Departments will take the lead in addressing the infrastructure deficiencies identified. A detailed timeline for correcting all deficiencies will be established.
## Why it matters The state of disrepair at US Pacific bases is a concern, particularly in the context of deterring China. The US Pacific Command is critical to maintaining regional stability, and the condition of its bases can impact the effectiveness of its operations. The Pentagon's decline to provide additional comment on the issues raised in the advisory beyond those already offered to the inspector general suggests that the matter is being taken seriously.
The emergency management advisory is a clear call to action, highlighting the need for immediate attention to address the infrastructure deficiencies. The fact that much of the advisory is heavily redacted as “Controlled Unclassified Information” underscores the sensitivity of the issue.
## What happens next The Military Departments, in coordination with identified stakeholders, will take the lead in addressing the infrastructure deficiencies. A detailed timeline for correcting all deficiencies will be established, and the Pentagon will likely face scrutiny over its handling of the situation. The condition of US Pacific bases will remain a critical issue, particularly in the context of regional security and the ongoing rivalry with China.
