The governor of the Northern Mariana Islands has underscored the critical necessity of an ambitious $800 million US military upgrade initiative, which encompasses the construction of a new airfield on the strategically important Pacific territory. This declaration comes amid escalating apprehensions regarding China’s recent missile tests that have heightened tensions in the region.
Tinian, which is home to a population of approximately 3,500 residents, stands out as one of the three principal islands within the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, an unincorporated territory of the United States. Historically significant, Tinian was the launch site for the US during World War II, where a nuclear bomb was dropped on Japan. Presently, comprehensive rehabilitation efforts for a once-abandoned airfield, along with other military enhancements, are actively being pursued on the island.
This endeavor aligns with a broader strategy developed by Washington aimed at reinforcing its security presence in the Indo-Pacific region against the backdrop of mounting geopolitical tensions.
Arnold Palacios, the governor of the Northern Mariana Islands, remarked, “The world is changing in the Indo-Pacific and we need to acknowledge that. We need to face reality.” He further insisted that the ongoing development of the defense base on Tinian “has to happen” given the increasingly complex situation.
Palacios expressed a desire for a peaceful world, stating, “Do I wish that we don’t have to have military bases? I think everybody in this world would like to see peace, but the best deterrent is to have a good defense and to be prepared.”
He emphasized rising concerns over China’s missile tests, specifically referencing recent strategic movements around Taiwan that have raised alarms internationally, noting, “If something happens, we will be impacted.”
The evolving Indo-Pacific strategy, initially introduced in 2022, aims to fortify the United States’ position in the region in light of the “mounting challenge” posed by China. This strategic framework underlines the significance of Tinian, which is currently under a land lease agreement encompassing two-thirds of its territory designated for military development.
Located approximately 2,414 km (1,500 miles) south of Tokyo, Tinian spans an area of 101 square kilometers (39 square miles). During World War II, it served as a critical base for B-29 Superfortress bombers, notable for their involvement in various bombing campaigns, including the bombings of Tokyo and the nuclear strikes on Hiroshima and Nagasaki.
The island is renowned not only for its historical significance but also for its stunning beaches, thriving cattle ranches, and the abundant growth of hot peppers. Tinian’s rich history attracts numerous visitors, particularly those interested in World War II heritage.
In the coming years, the US Department of Defense envisions investing nearly $800 million into Tinian to bolster its defense capabilities. Initial phases of construction commenced in 2022, with a projected completion date for the upgraded runway anticipated in 2025.
Lt Cmdr Michelle Tucker, spokesperson for the Joint Task Force-Micronesia, explained that air force engineers are engaging in extensive “rehabilitation work” to restore over 1.85 million square meters (20 million square feet) of deteriorating pavement, thus creating what is termed “a rejuvenated runway.”
With Guam serving as the cornerstone of US military efforts in the Indo-Pacific, Tucker emphasized that the Northern Mariana Islands play a vital role in the overall defense and power projection strategy across the region.
Considering the strategic implications of Tinian, Tucker asserted that the island stands as a valuable backup site, which is essential for meeting mission requirements and supporting operations in Guam and surrounding Pacific locations.
“The construction work on Tinian is part of a broader initiative to expand facilities and general port and airport options throughout the Indo-Pacific region,” Tucker elaborated, underscoring the project’s extensive nature.
A proposed military training complex is envisioned to encompass multiple ranges, landing zones, and base camps, aimed at providing servicemen and women with realistic joint combat training opportunities in a tropical setting.
Tucker also announced that the US is actively considering waterfront and wharf improvements at Tinian harbor berths to adequately accommodate various naval vessels, enhancing operational versatility.
Michael Walsh, a visiting researcher at the Lasky Center for Transatlantic Studies at Ludwig Maximilian University in Munich, noted that bolstering military capabilities on Tinian is strategic in the context of a comprehensive network across the region, stating, “What is planned has the potential of being very valuable in terms of strategic signalling and deterrence effect.”
However, he also cautioned that such enhancements “could also be easily neutralised by China in the event of the outbreak of a major confrontation.”
In light of current global dynamics, Palacios firmly believes that advancing defense development on Tinian is critical. He remarked, “We hope that things will get dialled down and everybody finally figures out that we need to all get along in the region. We cannot afford to be afraid.”
How does the history of Tinian influence current military readiness and strategic decisions in the region?
**Interview with Governor Arnold Palacios of the Northern Mariana Islands**
**Interviewer:** Governor Palacios, thank you for joining us today. Recently, you emphasized the necessity of an $800 million military upgrade, including a new airfield on Tinian. Could you elaborate on why you believe this initiative is so critical at this moment?
**Governor Palacios:** Thank you for having me. The situation in the Indo-Pacific is evolving rapidly, especially with China’s recent missile tests and increasing military activity in the region. We can no longer afford to be complacent. As such, the development of our defense base on Tinian has to happen. It’s essential for our security and stability.
**Interviewer:** Tinian has a significant historical background. How does that history influence the current military endeavors?
**Governor Palacios:** Absolutely, Tinian is historically important—it was a launch site for pivotal operations during World War II. Today, it remains strategically vital. The U.S. military’s presence here can serve as both a deterrent and a response capability in the face of rising tensions. Investing in a state-of-the-art airfield and military infrastructure honors that history while preparing us for future challenges.
**Interviewer:** You mentioned concerns about China’s military actions, particularly regarding Taiwan. How do you foresee the potential impacts on the Northern Mariana Islands?
**Governor Palacios:** If tensions escalate, the Northern Mariana Islands will certainly feel the impacts. We are located within the scope of these developments. It is crucial to have robust defense mechanisms in place. I believe the best deterrent is being well-prepared. We must acknowledge the reality we’re facing in the region.
**Interviewer:** Some may argue that having military bases clashes with the desire for peace. How do you respond to that sentiment?
**Governor Palacios:** It’s a complex issue. I also wish we could live in a world without military bases. Most people desire peace. However, I firmly believe that a strong defense can actually contribute to peace. We must be prepared to protect our interests and support our allies. It’s about striking a balance between a peaceful existence and the realities of current geopolitical challenges.
**Interviewer:** Looking ahead, what are the next steps for the military upgrades on Tinian?
**Governor Palacios:** The U.S. Department of Defense plans to invest nearly $800 million in the coming years, with construction already underway. The aim is to complete the upgraded runway by 2025. This project is not just about enhancing military capabilities; it’s about ensuring that we are ready for whatever the future may hold while improving our local economy as well.
**Interviewer:** Thank you, Governor Palacios, for sharing your insights on this crucial matter. We appreciate your commitment to securing the future of the Northern Mariana Islands.
**Governor Palacios:** Thank you for having me. It’s vital to keep these conversations going, as the situation is always evolving.
