This hearing will deal with the defense and security challenges in the East Asia-Pacific region. In this hearing we will look at whether the rebalance is on track to achieve the administration's goal of strengthening strategic alliances, deepening partnerships, building a stable, productive, and constructive relationship with China, and empowering regional institutions to tackle shared challenges and peacefully resolving conflicts. A stable and cooperative regional security environment is necessary for the free flow of commerce and ideas. The region is undergoing a significant transition with signs of security dilemmas and potential arms races. Our constructive engagement in the region can help ensure the transition takes place in a positive way, ensuring regional peace and security.