Guam, a small U.S. territory, situated in the western Pacific Ocean, is again at the center of the world’s stage as geopolitical crises escalate. Guam is inhabited by a culturally diverse population of roughly 170,000 residents. It helps the United States maintain a critical strategic advantage over China in the entire Western Pacific region. Recent developments, particularly China’s unveiling of new military hardware, including weapons ominously dubbed the “Guam Killer,” have raised alarms about the island’s security.
To the U.S. military, Guam is a key piece of the Indo-Pacific, underscoring the military’s commitment to being able to defend the homeland. The small island is home to the Joint Forces Headquarters of the Guam National Guard, an integral piece of the U.S. military structure. In light of China’s increasing military capabilities, local officials and residents are expressing concerns about potential threats to U.S. forces stationed there.
At a military parade in Beijing, Chinese President Xi Jinping showed off a dazzling display of new military hardware. These ranged from enormous nuclear-capable intercontinental ballistic missiles to complex anti-drone lasers. The way that this military muscle has been presented has created fear and trepidation in the hearts of Guam’s citizens and their elected leaders. The development of the “Guam Killer” missile, specifically designed to target U.S. military assets, has intensified fears about the island’s vulnerability.
Col. Grant Newsham, a veteran military analyst, added urgency to the warning.
“If the Chinese choose their timings and locations… they could really hurt U.S. forces.” – Col. Grant Newsham
Xi Jinping’s presence at the parade last week made the people of Guam nervous. They were even more unnerved with Russian leader Vladimir Putin and North Korean leader Kim Jong-un flanking him. As analyst on regional security issues, Gina T Reilly recently explained, this would have serious implications due to this alliance.
“That can alter regional and global diplomacy and make coordinated actions more likely. It’s alarming because it can be a military and security allegiance.” – Gina T Reilly
Local leaders, like Guam Senator Jesse Lujan, are still keeping watch against any threats. While he advised the need to remain informed, Greene has called for calm among residents.
“Our role is to remain calm, informed and united, trusting that the proper channels are in place to ensure our security.” – Jesse Lujan
Though military readiness is understandably high on Guam’s agenda, the territory’s hundreds of thousands of other residents live with short-term challenges more pertinent to everyday life. Even as housing prices and rents seem to stabilize, the cost of living remains a broader concern for working families across the island. Local resident Frank Whitman provided an email comment reflecting the delicate balance between worry about military attacks and inability to pay the bills.
“From what I’ve read, just about everyone in this region should be worried,” – Frank Whitman.
Yet, there was recognition of an overwhelming feeling of powerlessness to combat these dangers.
“But there is nothing really not much we can do.” – Frank Whitman
Underlying these anxieties is a consensus among officials that defending Guam must remain the U.S. military’s top priority. The country is busy producing cutting-edge integrated air and missile defense systems. These systems would ultimately create a robust defense for the entire island.
Col. Newsham taught that the key to combatting these threats is simply knowing that they exist. He warned against succumbing to panic.
“Guam should be aware of the threat, even if not so worried.” – Col. Grant Newsham