Defense Secretary Touts U.S. Naval Power Amid Rising Tensions with China and Russia

Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin addressed newly commissioned officers at the U.S. Naval Academy.
Austin acknowledged the Navy's role in training allies, expanding Ukraine’s maritime capabilities, and bringing relief to international conflict zones.
Austin touted American sea power and teamwork in the Indo-Pacific region and among NATO allies amid Russia’s war in Ukraine.
More than 1,000 graduates make up the U.S. Naval Academy’s class of 2023, which will move on for more advanced training and eventual deployment with the Marines or Navy.
Austin highlighted U.S. Marines training with allies in Japan and the Philippines, the AUKUS partnership with Australia and the U.K., and U.S. sailors operating with NATO allies in Europe.