Mobile Courant

In a Senate Armed Services Committee (SASC) hearing, Senator Tommy Tuberville (R-AL) questioned Admiral Samuel J. Paparo, Jr., President Biden's nominee for Commander of the United States Indo-Pacific Command. Senator Tuberville addressed various concerns, including the availability and quality of KC-46 tankers, U.S./Philippine cooperative agreements, aggression in the Philippines, United States-Vietnam relations, the protection of Guam, and the Chinese spy balloon incident.

Regarding the KC-46 tankers, Senator Tuberville asked Admiral Paparo about the concerns regarding the availability and quality of these aircraft. In response, Admiral Paparo stated that he has no concerns about the quality and has faith that no aircraft will fly until it's ready. However, he expressed concerns about the ability of the joint force to refuel a dynamic force operating in the air and highlighted the importance of addressing any gaps.

Moving on to the Philippines, Senator Tuberville inquired about the biggest concerns in the country and what needs to be done. Admiral Paparo emphasized that the Philippines are under intense pressure with aggression against their lawful sovereign rights in their Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ). He stressed the importance of demonstrating that the United States has their back and is ready to assist them in their defense of their rights.

Regarding U.S.-Vietnam relations and the situation in the South China Sea, Senator Tuberville asked Admiral Paparo about any changes. Admiral Paparo commended the elevation of the strategic comprehensive partnership with Vietnam and highlighted the current areas of cooperation, including medical and unexploded ordinance removal. He expressed readiness to deepen the partnership with Vietnam based on their desires.

Shifting to the protection of Guam, Senator Tuberville recalled Admiral Aquilino's request for an Aegis system at Guam. Admiral Paparo echoed the importance of a multilayered effective and capable integrated air and missile defense system to defend the Americans in Guam and the American homeland. He emphasized that it would be his number one priority if confirmed.

Lastly, Senator Tuberville expressed concerns about the Chinese spy balloon incident and asked Admiral Paparo when he first found out about it. Admiral Paparo clarified that as the Pacific Fleet Commander, he was not directly involved in the air defense business. He stated that the incident came to light over the continental United States and violated the sovereignty of the United States.

Senator Tommy Tuberville's questioning covered a range of important topics related to the Indo-Pacific region and the United States' role in ensuring security and defense. As a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, Senator Tuberville's inquiries provided valuable insights into the nominee's perspective and priorities in addressing these critical issues.