Singapore – U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth kicked off his visit to the 23rd Shangri-La Dialogue on Friday with a show of solidarity, joining American troops for a rigorous early-morning workout and run aboard the USS Boxer.
The amphibious assault ship is currently in Singapore for resupply before heading back to the Middle East amid heightened tensions with Iran. Hegseth, dressed in workout gear, participated alongside sailors and Marines, praising their high state of readiness and willingness to deploy on short notice.
“You are the tip of the spear,” Hegseth told the troops, according to officials traveling with him. “The President wanted me to deliver this message directly: Iran can choose the path of negotiation and de-escalation, or it will face the full weight of American military strength.”
The visit comes as the USS Boxer prepares to rejoin operations in a volatile region. Hegseth’s appearance was intended to boost morale and underscore the Trump administration’s commitment to supporting forward-deployed forces.
This marks Hegseth’s fourth trip to the Indo-Pacific since taking office in January 2025. On Saturday, he is scheduled to deliver a major address at the Shangri-La Dialogue titled “Peace Through Strength,” which is expected to focus on deterring Chinese aggression, supporting Taiwan, and strengthening alliances across the region.
The Shangri-La Dialogue, Asia’s premier security forum, brings together defense ministers, military officials, and experts from around the world. Hegseth’s participation and direct engagement with troops highlight the administration’s dual focus: maintaining robust deterrence in the Middle East while reinforcing America’s strategic posture in the Indo-Pacific.
A senior defense official described the morning run as “more than symbolic,” noting that it reflects Hegseth’s emphasis on readiness and his hands-on leadership style since assuming the role of Pentagon chief.
