US to move majority of naval fleet to Asia-Pacific

Panetta told an Asian security conference in Singapore that the 60 per cent of the US navy would be deployed in the Asia-Pacific region to rebalance its interests.
"By 2020, the navy will reposture its forces from today's roughly 50-50 split between the Pacific and the Atlantic to about a 60-40 split between those oceans," he told the annual Shangri-la Dialogue.
"That will include six aircraft carriers in this region, a majority of our cruisers, destroyers, combat ships and submarines," he said.
The strategy includes expanding a network of military partnerships in the region to bolster the US role in a region that is increasing becoming more vital to America's future, he said.
"In a steady, deliberate and sustainable way, the United States military is rebalancing and brings enhanced capabilities to this vital region."
He denied suggestions that the US was trying to contain Chinese power in the region, which he described as big enough for the two major powers to develop their interests.
"Our effort to renew and intensify our involvement in Asia is fully compatible with the development and growth of China. Indeed, increased US involvement in this region will benefit China as it advances our shared security and prosperity for the future."
Beijing has already indicated its unhappiness with the increasing US focus on the Asia-Pacific region.
That was also evident from the low-key Chinese participation in the summit. Its defence minister declined to attend, citing the need to stay in China and deal with matters relating to the country's leadership transition this year.
Panetta is on an eight-day Asian tour to include visits to India and Vietnam.//DPA