As North Korean and Chinese threats rise, US looks to lock in defense partnerships with Asian allies

In this handout photo provided by the U.S. Navy, U.S. Navy Sailors depart en route to the exercises in the East China Sea, June 26, 2024. The newly-inaugurated Freedom Edge exercise is wrapping up in the East China Sea, having brought together Japanese, South Korean and American naval assets for multi-domain maneuvers for the first time. (Mass Communication Specialist Petty Officer 2nd Class Rashan Jefferson/U.S. Navy via AP) GIMHAE AIR BASE - The United States wrapped up its first multidomain exercise with Japan and South Korea in the East China Sea on Saturday, a step forward in Washington’s efforts to…