FDR’s Lend-Lease program during World War II threw our allies a lifeline. It signaled U.S. resolve before hostile powers choked off our access to Europe and endangered us.
In September, Chinese forces secured another victory in their relentless quest to control the strategically vital South China Sea. After months of blocking resupply efforts and ramming Philippine vessels on peaceful patrols, Beijing forced a Philippine Coast Guard vessel to retreat from Sabina Shoal – a maritime feature well within the Philippine Exclusive Economic Zone . Fortunately, the U.S.
Accordingly, U.S. officials have vowed to defend the Philippines under the 1951 Mutual Defense Treaty should hostilities break out. Yet doubts persist in Manila and Beijing about the depth of America’s commitment. If a wavering U.S. fails to deter China or defend its treaty ally, U.S. interests and credibility in the Pacific will suffer a catastrophic blow. A Philippines lease to the U.S. would peacefully improve both nations’ hands, granting the U.S.
This program also could spur a broader multilateral effort. Japan, Australia and others committed to thwarting China’s maritime aggression could endorse or join the program, further isolating Beijing diplomatically. While a modern Lend-Lease would reduce long-term risks and costs, it could produce near-term challenges. China will undoubtedly retaliate with economic, military and diplomatic pressure against Manila to fracture the U.S.-Philippine alliance.
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