AUSMIN 2022 in Washington was a case of nothing much to hear but more to see. In contrast to recent years, the Australian delegation said little publicly on China but, consistent with its two-track China strategy, reinforced foreign and defence policies designed to protect the national interest from Beijing’s aggressive actions. The major announcement – inviting Japan to join “force posture initiatives”, in which US military personnel and assets rotate through northern Australia – didn’t mention China, but was all about China.

The integration of a very close strategic partner into such a potent demonstration of regional military co-operation under the Australia-US alliance adds to the clear picture that like-minded nations are now openly looking to constrain China – including through military deterrence.