Adm. Samuel J. Paparo, commander of the U.S. Indo-Pacific Command, recently visited Singapore from May 29 to June 1, 2025. During his visit, he engaged with senior military and government officials to strengthen alliances and discuss global security challenges at the Shangri-La Dialogue.
The Shangri-La Dialogue is an annual defense summit organized by the International Institute for Strategic Studies. It serves as a platform for ministers and defense leaders worldwide to engage in bilateral talks and address regional security issues.
Paparo participated in a panel discussion titled "Defence Innovation Solutions for Future Challenges" at the dialogue. He stressed the importance of a comprehensive approach to innovation that includes people, ideas, and machines alongside technology. Paparo stated that "speed wins" in conflicts and emphasized that effective execution of the OODA Loop (Observe, Orient, Decide, Act) is crucial.
During the event, Paparo also took part in bilateral and multilateral engagements aimed at enhancing cooperation across the Indo-Pacific region. He met with defense ministers and senior military leaders from several countries including Australia, France, India, Indonesia, Japan, Republic of Korea, Malaysia, Philippines, Singapore, and Thailand.
While in Singapore, Paparo visited the USS Dewey (DDG 105), an Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer at Sembawang Naval Installation. He attended a promotion ceremony for 19 Sailors aboard the ship. The USS Dewey was in port for the International Maritime Defense Exhibition (IMDEX) Asia 2025.
Paparo's visit underscored the strong partnership between the U.S. Navy and the Republic of Singapore Navy. This relationship facilitates patrols in the South China Sea and participation in naval exercises while providing opportunities to strengthen personal and professional ties.
Singapore is considered one of the United States' strongest bilateral partners in Southeast Asia due to their mutual economic interests and robust security cooperation.