[Congressional Bills 115th Congress]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office]
[H.R. 2621 Introduced in House (IH)]

<DOC>






115th CONGRESS
  1st Session
                                H. R. 2621

 To strengthen security in the Indo-Asia-Pacific region, and for other 
                               purposes.


_______________________________________________________________________


                    IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES

                              May 24, 2017

Mr. Thornberry introduced the following bill; which was referred to the 
   Committee on Armed Services, and in addition to the Committees on 
   Foreign Affairs, and the Budget, for a period to be subsequently 
   determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such 
 provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the committee concerned

_______________________________________________________________________

                                 A BILL


 
 To strengthen security in the Indo-Asia-Pacific region, and for other 
                               purposes.

    Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the 
United States of America in Congress assembled,

SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE AND TABLE OF CONTENTS.

    (a) Short Title.--This Act may be cited as the ``Strengthening 
Security in the Indo-Asia-Pacific Act''.
    (b) Table of Contents.--The table of contents for this Act is as 
follows:

Sec. 1. Short title and table of contents.
Sec. 2. Findings and sense of Congress.
Sec. 3. Congressional defense committees defined.
 TITLE I--UNITED STATES POLICY AND STRATEGY FOR THE INDO-ASIA-PACIFIC 
                                 REGION

Sec. 101. Report on strategy to prioritize United States defense 
                            interests in the Indo-Asia-Pacific region.
Sec. 102. Assessment of United States force posture and basing needs in 
                            the Indo-Asia-Pacific region.
        TITLE II--MATTERS RELATING TO THE DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE

Sec. 201. Authorization of funds for critical munitions.
Sec. 202. Procurement of ballistic missile interceptors and missile 
                            defense exercises.
Sec. 203. Plan to maintain a forward-stationed combat aviation brigade 
                            in South Korea.
Sec. 204. Extended deterrence commitment to the Asia-Pacific region.
Sec. 205. Assessment of ability of the Air Force to employ bombers and 
                            associated weapons while forward deployed.
Sec. 206. Plan to enhance imagery sharing with allies in the Asia-
                            Pacific region.
Sec. 207. Plan to increase cyber and information operations, 
                            deterrence, and defense.
Sec. 208. Establishment of joint training exercises and improving 
                            response capabilities for contingency 
                            scenarios.
             TITLE III--MATTERS RELATING TO FOREIGN NATIONS

Sec. 301. Assessment of freedom of navigation operations in the South 
                            China Sea.
Sec. 302. Sense of Congress reaffirming security commitments to the 
                            Governments of Japan and South Korea and 
                            trilateral cooperation between the United 
                            States, Japan, and South Korea.
Sec. 303. Sense of Congress on the Association of Southeast Asian 
                            Nations.
Sec. 304. Sense of Congress on strengthening the defense of Taiwan.
Sec. 305. Sense of Congress on reaffirming the importance of the United 
                            States-Australia defense alliance.

SEC. 2. FINDINGS AND SENSE OF CONGRESS.

    (a) Findings.--Congress finds the following:
            (1) The United States has a national interest in 
        maintaining the security and stability of the Indo-Asia-Pacific 
        region.
            (2) The substantial forward presence of United States Armed 
        Forces is instrumental to maintaining security and stability in 
        the Indo-Asia-Pacific region and to deterring acts of 
        aggression in the region.
            (3) In April 2017, Admiral Harry Harris, Jr., Commander of 
        the United States Pacific Command, testified that ``of the five 
        global challenges that currently drive U.S. defense planning 
        and budgeting--ISIS (Islamic State of Iraq and Syria), North 
        Korea, China, Russia, and Iran--four are in the Indo-Asia-
        Pacific''. He further testified:
                    (A) ``North Korea continues to disregard United 
                Nations sanctions by developing, and threatening to use 
                intercontinental ballistic missiles and nuclear weapons 
                that will threaten the U.S. Homeland.''.
                    (B) ``China is rapidly building a modern, capable 
                military that appears to far exceed its stated 
                defensive purpose or potential regional needs. China's 
                military is modernization is focused on defeating the 
                United States in Asia by countering U.S. asymmetric 
                advantages.''.
                    (C) ``Russia is modernizing its military and once 
                again exercising its conventional forces and nuclear 
                strike capabilities in the Pacific, which also threaten 
                the Homeland.''.
                    (D) ``Transnational terrorists, inspired by and in 
                some cases led by ISIS, have set their sights on the 
                Indo-Asia-Pacific by supporting and encouraging attacks 
                in Indonesia, Bangladesh, Philippines, and Malaysia 
                while recruiting and fund-raising there and 
                elsewhere.''.
            (4) Frank Kendall, former Under Secretary of Defense for 
        Acquisition, Technology and Logistics, testified in January 
        2015, that ``U.S. superiority in some key warfare domains is at 
        risk including United States surface fleet and forward bases in 
        the Pacific and the United States ability to maintain air 
        dominance.''.
            (5) Continued United States engagement in the Indo-Asia-
        Pacific region is fundamental to maintaining security and 
        stability in the region, and the United States should expand 
        and optimize cooperative relationships with and among allies 
        and partners in the region, including Japan, South Korea, 
        Australia, the Philippines, Thailand, Singapore, Taiwan, New 
        Zealand, India, Vietnam, Mongolia, Malaysia, Indonesia, and 
        Burma.
            (6) The United States Armed Forces continue to work closely 
        with the militaries of these and other regional countries to 
        promote peace, uphold the rules-based order, and deter acts of 
        aggression.
            (7) Secretary of Defense James Mattis, in his confirmation 
        hearing in January 2017, stated that the ``Pacific theater 
        remains a priority''. In February 2017, Secretary of Defense 
        Mattis stated that ``in cooperation with our allies and 
        partners, the United States seeks to ensure a peaceful, secure, 
        and free Asia-Pacific region'', and reaffirmed the importance 
        of the bilateral relationships of the United States with Japan 
        and South Korea during his visit to Tokyo and Seoul.
            (8) In March 2017, Secretary of State Rex Tillerson 
        emphasized the importance of strengthening the relationships of 
        the United States with Japan and South Korea, addressing North 
        Korea's nuclear and ballistic missile programs through 
        trilateral cooperation, building a shared commitment to the 
        rule of law and international norms, and promoting stability 
        and prosperity throughout the region.
            (9) In June 2016, then-Secretary of Defense Ash Carter said 
        at the Shangri-La Dialogue that the ``United States will stand 
        with regional partners to uphold core principles, like freedom 
        of navigation and overflight, and the peaceful resolution of 
        disputes through legal means and in accordance with 
        international law . . . and that the United States remains 
        committed to working with China to ensure a principled 
        future.''.
            (10) Admiral Harris testified in April 2017, ``[The United 
        States Pacific Command] requires a force posture that credibly 
        communicates United States resolve, strengthens alliances and 
        partnerships, prevents conflicts, and in the event of crisis, 
        responds rapidly across the full range of military operations, 
        and [the United States Pacific Command's] force posture is 
        supported by the deployment of rotational forces and the 
        fielding of new capabilities and concepts that address 
        operational shortfalls and critical gaps.''. Admiral Harris 
        also noted that ``threats in the [Indo-Asia-Pacific region] 
        require United States military forces in the region maintain a 
        high level of readiness to respond rapidly to a crisis . . . 
        and the ability of the United States to surge and globally 
        maneuver ready forces is an asymmetric advantage that must be 
        maintained.''.
    (b) Sense of Congress.--It is the sense of Congress that--
            (1) the security, stability, and prosperity of the Indo-
        Asia-Pacific region is vital to the national interests of the 
        United States;
            (2) the United States should maintain a military capability 
        in the region that is able to project power, deter acts of 
        aggression, and respond, if necessary, to regional threats;
            (3) continuing efforts by the Department of Defense to 
        realign forces, commit additional assets, and increase 
        investments to the Indo-Asia-Pacific region are necessary to 
        maintain a robust United States commitment to the region;
            (4) the Department of Defense should--
                    (A) assess its current force posture in the Indo-
                Asia-Pacific region to ensure that the United States 
                maintains an appropriate forward presence in the 
                region;
                    (B) invest in critical munitions, undersea warfare 
                capabilities, amphibious capabilities, resilient space 
                architectures, missile defense, offensive and defensive 
                cyber capabilities, and other capabilities conducive to 
                operating effectively in contested environments; and
                    (C) enhance regional force readiness through joint 
                training and exercises, considering contingencies 
                ranging from grey zone to high-end near-peer conflict; 
                and
            (5) the United States should continue to engage in the 
        Indo-Asia-Pacific region by strengthening alliances and 
        partnerships, supporting regional institutions and bodies such 
        as the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), building 
        cooperative security arrangements, addressing shared 
        challenges, and reinforcing the role of international law.

SEC. 3. CONGRESSIONAL DEFENSE COMMITTEES DEFINED.

    In this Act, the term ``congressional defense committees'' has the 
meaning given such term in section 101(a)(16) of title 10, United 
States Code.

 TITLE I--UNITED STATES POLICY AND STRATEGY FOR THE INDO-ASIA-PACIFIC 
                                 REGION

SEC. 101. REPORT ON STRATEGY TO PRIORITIZE UNITED STATES DEFENSE 
              INTERESTS IN THE INDO-ASIA-PACIFIC REGION.

    (a) Required Report.--Not later than February 1, 2018, the 
Secretary of Defense shall submit to the congressional defense 
committees a report on United States defense priorities that addresses 
the following:
            (1) The security challenges, including threats, emanating 
        from the Indo-Asia-Pacific region.
            (2) The primary objectives and priorities in the Indo-Asia-
        Pacific region, including--
                    (A) the military missions necessary to address 
                threats on the Korean Peninsula;
                    (B) the role of the Department of Defense in the 
                Indo-Asia-Pacific region regarding security challenges 
                posed by China; and
                    (C) the primary objectives and priorities for 
                combating terrorism in the Indo-Asia-Pacific region.
            (3) Department of Defense plans, force posture, 
        capabilities, and resources to address any gaps.
            (4) The roles of allies, partners, and other countries in 
        achieving United States defense objectives and priorities.
            (5) Actions the Department of Defense could take, in 
        cooperation with other Federal departments or agencies, to 
        advance United States national security interests in the Indo-
        Asia-Pacific region.
            (6) Any other matters the Secretary of Defense determines 
        to be appropriate.
    (b) Form.--The report required by subsection (a) shall be submitted 
in unclassified form, but may contain a classified annex.
    (c) Annual Budget.--The President, acting through the Director of 
the Office of Management and Budget, shall ensure that the annual 
budget submitted to Congress under section 1105 of title 31, United 
States Code, clearly highlights programs and projects that are being 
funded in the annual budget of the United States Government that relate 
to the strategy referred to in subsection (a).
    (d) Sense of Congress.--It is the sense of Congress that the 
strategy referred to in subsection (a) should be informed by the 
overall strategy to promote United States interests in the Indo-Asia-
Pacific region as required by section 1261 of the National Defense 
Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2016 (Public Law 114-92; 129 Stat. 
1072).
    (e) Repeal.--Section 1251 of the Carl Levin and Howard P. ``Buck'' 
McKeon National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2015 (Public 
Law 113-291; 128 Stat. 3570) is hereby repealed.

SEC. 102. ASSESSMENT OF UNITED STATES FORCE POSTURE AND BASING NEEDS IN 
              THE INDO-ASIA-PACIFIC REGION.

    (a) Findings.--Congress finds the following:
            (1) An enduring United States presence and engagement 
        across the Indo-Asia-Pacific region provides the critical 
        access and infrastructure necessary to accomplish United States 
        defense priorities, expands the global reach of the United 
        States across the Pacific, and facilitates a rapid United 
        States response to complex crises and contingencies.
            (2) Forward-stationed active duty members of the Armed 
        Forces, forward-deployed rotational units, and reserve forces 
        assigned to the United States Pacific Command remains essential 
        for United States planning, logistics, and operations, as well 
        as fulfilling commitments with United States treaty allies.
            (3) Admiral Harry Harris, Jr., Commander of the United 
        States Pacific Command, testified in February 2016 that ``the 
        tyranny of distance and short indications and warning timelines 
        place a premium on robust, modern, and agile forward-stationed 
        forces at high levels of readiness''.
    (b) Assessment Required.--
            (1) In general.--The Secretary of Defense shall conduct an 
        assessment of United States force posture and basing needs in 
        the Indo-Asia-Pacific region.
            (2) Elements.--The assessment required under paragraph (1) 
        shall include the following:
                    (A) A review of military requirements based on 
                operation and contingency plans, scenarios, 
                capabilities of potential adversaries, and any assessed 
                gaps or shortfalls of the Armed Forces.
                    (B) A review of current United States military 
                force posture and deployment plans of the United States 
                Pacific Command.
                    (C) An analysis of potential future realignments of 
                United States forces in the region, including options 
                for strengthening United States presence, access, 
                readiness, training, exercises, logistics, and pre-
                positioning.
                    (D) A discussion of political, diplomatic, 
                economic, and military factors that may influence the 
                United States posture.
                    (E) Any recommended changes to the United States 
                posture in the region.
                    (F) Any other matters the Secretary of Defense 
                determines to be appropriate.
    (c) Report.--
            (1) In general.--Not later than March 1, 2018, the 
        Secretary of Defense shall submit to the congressional defense 
        committees a report that includes the assessment required under 
        subsection (b).
            (2) Form.--The report required under paragraph (1) shall be 
        submitted in unclassified form, but may contain a classified 
        annex.

        TITLE II--MATTERS RELATING TO THE DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE

SEC. 201. AUTHORIZATION OF FUNDS FOR CRITICAL MUNITIONS.

    (a) Findings.--Congress finds the following:
            (1) Admiral Harry Harris, Jr., Commander of the United 
        States Pacific Command, testified in February 2016 ``critical 
        munitions shortfalls are a top priority and concern . . . 
        munitions are a major component of combat pre-positioning, but 
        fiscal pressure places this at risk''.
            (2) Admiral Harris stated that ``Weapons improvement 
        priorities include long-range and stand-off strike weapons, 
        longer-range anti-ship weapons, advanced air-to-air munitions, 
        theater ballistic/cruise missile defense, torpedoes, naval 
        mines, and a cluster munitions replacement.''.
            (3) Admiral Harris further indicated that ``if additional 
        resources were to become available, I would prioritize 
        investment in the following areas . . . procure additional 
        critical munitions (AIX-9X, AIM-120D, SM-6, MK-48)''.
    (b) Sense of Congress.--It is the sense of Congress that--
            (1) the Department of Defense should address shortfalls in 
        critical munitions inventories and make improvements in 
        critical munitions capabilities;
            (2) insufficient critical munition investments will limit 
        the ability of the Armed Forces to perform required missions; 
        and
            (3) improvements to critical munition capabilities should 
        include pre-positioning arrangements, infrastructure for 
        munition storage and security, and logistical requirements for 
        critical munitions.
    (c) Availability of Funds.--
            (1) Authorization.--There is authorized to be appropriated 
        to the Department of Defense for fiscal year 2018 
        $1,000,000,000 to address shortfalls in critical munition 
        inventories and to improve critical munition capabilities.
            (2) Capability and capacity areas.--Paragraph (1) shall 
        apply with respect to the following:
                    (A) AIM-120.
                    (B) AIM-9X.
                    (C) Precision-Guided Anti-Ship Missiles.
                    (D) Standard missile-2.
                    (E) Standard missile-6.
                    (F) Evolved sea sparrow missiles.
                    (G) Laser direct attack munition.
                    (H) Miniature air launched decoy jammers.
                    (I) Fuzes for hard target penetrators.
                    (J) Massive ordnance penetrators.
                    (K) Army tactical missile system.
                    (L) Guided multiple launch rocket system.
                    (M) Tomahawk land attack missiles.
                    (N) Joint standoff weapon.
                    (O) Joint air-to-surface standoff missile extended 
                range.
                    (P) Sonobuoys.
                    (Q) MK48 heavy weight torpedos.
                    (R) MK48 torpedo modifications.
                    (S) MK54 light weight torpedos.
                    (T) Any other weapon system determined appropriate 
                by the Secretary of Defense.
    (d) Notification.--Not later than 30 days before taking any action 
to obligate funds authorized by subsection (c)(1), the Secretary of 
Defense shall notify the congressional defense committees of any 
proposed obligation and provide a detailed justification for such 
proposed obligations.

SEC. 202. PROCUREMENT OF BALLISTIC MISSILE INTERCEPTORS AND MISSILE 
              DEFENSE EXERCISES.

    (a) Findings.--Congress finds the following:
            (1) In April 2017, Admiral Harry Harris, Jr., Commander of 
        the United States Pacific Command, testified that ``Pacific 
        Commands Integrated Air and Missile Defense priority is to 
        establish a persistent, credible, and sustainable ballistic 
        missile defense presence by forward deploying the latest 
        advancements in missile defense technologies to the Indo-Asia-
        Pacific. Accordingly, TPY-2 radars in Japan, the THAAD system 
        on Guam, and the Sea-Based X-band radar based in Hawaii defend 
        the U.S. homeland and our allies.''.
            (2) In February 2016, General Curtis Scaparrotti, former 
        Commander of the United States Forces, Korea, testified that 
        ``North Korea's missile program continues to develop, so it is 
        critical for the Alliance to continue to build a layered and 
        interoperable BMD capability . . . and consider a high-altitude 
        missile defense capability.''.
    (b) Procurement.--There is authorized to be appropriated to the 
Department of Defense for fiscal year 2018 $1,000,000,000 to procure 
terminal high altitude area defense interceptors or lower-tier air and 
missile defense interceptors, including standard missile-3, Patriot 
Advanced Capability (PAC-3) missile segment enhancement, and Patriot 
guidance enhanced missile TBM.
    (c) Exercises.--There is authorized to be appropriated to the 
Department of Defense for fiscal year 2018 $15,000,000 for exercises to 
be conducted by the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, the 
Commander of the United States Pacific Command, and the Commander of 
the United States Northern Command for joint and other exercises with 
the armed forces of the Governments of Japan, South Korea, Australia, 
and the United States for the defense against and defeat of ballistic 
missile forces of North Korea.
    (d) Notification.--Not later than 30 days before taking any action 
to obligate funds authorized by subsection (b) or (c), the Secretary of 
Defense shall notify the congressional defense committees of any 
proposed obligation and provide a detailed justification for such 
proposed obligations.

SEC. 203. PLAN TO MAINTAIN A FORWARD-STATIONED COMBAT AVIATION BRIGADE 
              IN SOUTH KOREA.

    (a) Findings.--Congress finds the following:
            (1) The National Commission on the Future of the Army 
        established by the National Commission on the Future of the 
        Army Act of 2014 (title XVII of Public Law 113-291) found that 
        the Army is incurring unacceptable risk in capabilities that 
        would be required early for major contingencies, and that 
        retaining an eleventh combat aviation brigade in the regular 
        Army would help meet these demands.
            (2) The Commission also found that with an eleventh combat 
        aviation brigade, the Army would be better postured to retain a 
        forward stationed aviation brigade in South Korea, a major 
        advantage over rotating forces as currently planned, and 
        shortfalls in capabilities would decline significantly.
            (3) The Army of the United States currently plans to begin 
        rotational sourcing in 2019 to meet the Combat Aviation Brigade 
        requirement in South Korea.
            (4) The Commission expressed concern that this rotational 
        approach may present unacceptable risk, given terrain and 
        aviation mission complexities in South Korea.
            (5) The Commission found that ``forward stationing of the 
        combat aviation brigade in South Korea would provide air crews 
        greater familiarity with the demanding environment and enable 
        greater interoperability with U.S. allies and partners for 
        `fight-tonight' readiness''.
    (b) Sense of Congress.--It is the sense of Congress that the 
Secretary of Defense, in consultation with the Secretary of the Army 
and the Chief of Staff of the Army, should retain an eleventh combat 
aviation brigade of the regular Army in South Korea.
    (c) Plan.--Not later than 90 days after the date of the enactment 
of this Act, the Secretary of Defense, in consultation with the 
Secretary of the Army and the Chief of Staff of the Army, shall submit 
to the congressional defense committees a plan that includes an 
assessment of the actions necessary, and additional resources required, 
to retain an eleventh combat aviation brigade in South Korea.
    (d) Form.--The plan required under subsection (c) shall be 
submitted in unclassified form, but may contain a classified annex.

SEC. 204. EXTENDED DETERRENCE COMMITMENT TO THE ASIA-PACIFIC REGION.

    (a) Findings.--Congress finds the following:
            (1) The 2010 Nuclear Posture Review reaffirmed the 
        commitment of the United States to extended deterrence and 
        continued protection of the treaty allies of the United States 
        under the United States nuclear umbrella.
            (2) The United States-Republic of Korea Deterrence Strategy 
        Committee and the United States-Japan Extended Deterrence 
        Dialogue provide valuable communication channels for ensuring 
        the commitment of the United States to the policy of extended 
        nuclear deterrence and allow for bilateral discussions on how 
        the range of United States capabilities--including the United 
        States nuclear umbrella--can be leveraged to credibly deter, 
        and if necessary, defeat, North Korean nuclear weapons, weapons 
        of mass destruction, and missile threats and aggression.
            (3) Statements by officials of the United States have 
        consistently emphasized the United States commitment to 
        providing extended deterrence and defense across the full 
        spectrum of military capabilities, including nuclear 
        capabilities.
            (4) On September 9, 2016, President Obama responded to a 
        North Korean nuclear test by issuing the following statement, 
        ``I restated to President Park and Prime Minister Abe the 
        unshakable U.S. commitment to take necessary steps to defend 
        our allies in the region, including through our deployment of a 
        Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) battery to the ROK, 
        and the commitment to extended deterrence, guaranteed by the 
        full spectrum of U.S. defense capabilities.''.
            (5) On October 14, 2016, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of 
        Staff, General Joseph Dunford, ``reaffirmed the ironclad 
        commitment of the U.S. to defend both the ROK and Japan and 
        provide extended deterrence guaranteed by the full spectrum of 
        U.S. military capabilities, including conventional, nuclear, 
        and missile defense capabilities''.
            (6) On October 19, 2016, Secretary of Defense Ashton 
        Carter, stated, ``the U.S. commitment to the defense of South 
        Korea is unwavering. This includes our commitment to provide 
        extended deterrence, guaranteed by the full spectrum of U.S. 
        defense capabilities. Make no mistake: Any attack on America or 
        our allies will not only be defeated, but any use of nuclear 
        weapons will be met with an overwhelming and effective 
        response.''.
            (7) On October 19, 2016, Secretary of State John Kerry, 
        during a joint press conference with the South Korean Foreign 
        Minister, confirmed the United States would ``defend South 
        Korea through a robust, combined defense posture and through 
        extended deterrence including the U.S. nuclear umbrella 
        conventional strike and missile defense capabilities.''.
            (8) On February 3, 2017, Secretary of Defense James Mattis, 
        during a visit to South Korea, stated, ``America's commitments 
        to defending our allies and to upholding our extended 
        deterrence guarantees remain ironclad: Any attack on the United 
        States, or our allies, will be defeated, and any use of nuclear 
        weapons would be met with a response that would be effective 
        and overwhelming.''.
            (9) In conjunction with the sea- and land-based legs of the 
        triad, nuclear-capable B-2, B-21, and B-52 bombers and dual-
        capable aircraft, including F-35 Block 4 aircraft, are vital to 
        ensuring the credibility and flexibility of United States 
        extended deterrence to Japan and South Korea.
    (b) Sense of Congress.--It is the sense of Congress that--
            (1) the defense of South Korea and Japan must remain a top 
        priority for the administration;
            (2) the United States maintains an unwavering and steadfast 
        commitment to the policy of extended deterrence, especially 
        with respect to South Korea and Japan;
            (3) bilateral extended deterrence dialogues and discussions 
        with South Korea and Japan are of great value to the United 
        States and its partners and must remain a central component of 
        these relationships;
            (4) the United States must maintain a robust nuclear triad, 
        including nuclear-capable bombers, consisting of the current 
        and planned Air Force fleet of nuclear-capable B-2, B-21, and 
        B-52 bombers and dual-capable aircraft including F-35 Block 4 
        aircraft, to ensure that the full spectrum of military options 
        associated with the extended deterrence commitments of the 
        United States remains credible and executable;
            (5) the fielding of long-range stand-off weapons in order 
        to replace the current fleet of air-launched cruise missiles 
        before such cruise missiles are retired at the end of the 
        service life of the missiles is absolutely vital to ensuring 
        the United States remains capable of meeting extended 
        deterrence commitments in the Asia-Pacific region in the years 
        to come; and
            (6) the timely development, production, and deployment of 
        the B-21 bomber and F-35 Block 4 dual-capable aircraft are 
        fundamental to ensure that the United States remains able to 
        meet extended deterrence requirements in the Asia-Pacific 
        region far into the future.

SEC. 205. ASSESSMENT OF ABILITY OF THE AIR FORCE TO EMPLOY BOMBERS AND 
              ASSOCIATED WEAPONS WHILE FORWARD DEPLOYED.

    (a) Assessment Required.--The Secretary of Defense shall conduct an 
assessment of the ability of the Air Force to employ the full range of 
bombers of the Air Force and the associated weapons of such bombers 
while forward deployed in support of operational plans, contingency 
plans, and warfighting scenarios throughout the Indo-Asia-Pacific area 
of operations.
    (b) Elements.--The assessment under subsection (a) shall include 
the following:
            (1) An assessment of the capabilities and limitations of 
        infrastructure and weapons loading equipment required to 
        support weapons ground transportation and activities for B-1 
        and B-52 bombers of the Air Force, when forward deployed to 
        airfields controlled by the United States allies of the United 
        States in the Indo-Asia-Pacific region.
            (2) An identification and assessment of any such assessed 
        limitation that would materially affect operational and 
        contingency plans and warfighting scenarios in the Indo-Asia-
        Pacific region.
            (3) Recommendations to mitigate any such infrastructure and 
        weapon loading equipment support limitations needed to ensure 
        full employment of bombers and associated weapons in support of 
        operational plans, contingency plans, and warfighting scenarios 
        in the Indo-Asia-Pacific region.
    (c) Report Required.--Not later than 180 days after the date of the 
enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Defense shall submit to the 
congressional defense committees a report that contains a report that 
includes the assessment required under subsection (a).
    (d) Form.--The report required under subsection (c) shall be 
submitted in unclassified form, but may contain a classified annex.

SEC. 206. PLAN TO ENHANCE IMAGERY SHARING WITH ALLIES IN THE ASIA-
              PACIFIC REGION.

    (a) Sense of Congress.--It is the sense of Congress that--
            (1) the Department of Defense should enhance critical 
        intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance capabilities 
        because such capabilities are a top readiness challenge and 
        resourcing priority; and
            (2) persistent intelligence, surveillance, and 
        reconnaissance capabilities with enhanced detection and 
        indications and warning are necessary to maintain situational 
        awareness and provide adequate decisions space for the United 
        States Pacific Command and United States Forces Korea.
    (b) Plan.--
            (1) In general.--The Secretary of Defense, in consultation 
        with the Director of National Intelligence, shall develop and 
        implement a plan for enhancing the sharing of commercial 
        imagery and national technical means with the Governments of 
        South Korea and Japan, consistent with the national security of 
        the United States and with the protection of sources and 
        methods. The Secretary shall implement such plan with the goal 
        of enhancing detection, indications, and warning, in order to 
        improve joint non-proliferation, counterproliferation, and 
        ballistic missile detection and defense capabilities.
            (2) Briefing.--Not later than 180 days after the date of 
        the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Defense, in 
        coordination with the Director of National Intelligence, shall 
        provide to the appropriate congressional committees a briefing 
        on the plan under paragraph (1).
            (3) Appropriate congressional committees.--In this 
        subsection, the term ``appropriate congressional committees'' 
        means--
                    (A) the Committee on Armed Services of the Senate 
                and the Committee on Armed Services of the House of 
                Representatives; and
                    (B) the Select Committee on Intelligence of the 
                Senate and the Permanent Select Committee on 
                Intelligence of the House of Representatives.

SEC. 207. PLAN TO INCREASE CYBER AND INFORMATION OPERATIONS, 
              DETERRENCE, AND DEFENSE.

    (a) Findings.--Congress finds the following:
            (1) Cyber threats originating from the Indo-Asia-Pacific 
        region targeting the United States and the allies of the United 
        States have increased, including the use of cyber intrusions, 
        the exfiltration of data in the national interest of the United 
        States, and espionage.
            (2) In February 2016, Admiral Harry Harris, Jr., Commander 
        of the United States Pacific Command, in his testimony noted 
        ``increased cyber capacity and nefarious activity, especially 
        by China, North Korea, and Russia underscore the growing 
        requirement to evolve command, control, and operational 
        authorities''.
            (3) Admiral Harris stated ``that in order to fully leverage 
        the cyber domain, PACOM requires an enduring theater cyber 
        capability able to provide cyber planning, integration, 
        synchronization, and direction of cyber forces.''.
    (b) Plan.--The Secretary of Defense shall develop a plan to--
            (1) incorporate cyber planning within joint planning 
        exercises pertaining to the Indo-Asia-Pacific region;
            (2) enhance joint, regional, and combined information 
        operations and strategic communication strategies to counter 
        Chinese, North Korean, and Russian information warfare, malign 
        influence, and propaganda activities; and
            (3) identify potential areas of cybersecurity collaboration 
        and partnership capabilities with Asian allies and partners of 
        the United States.
    (c) Briefing.--Not later than 180 days after the date of the 
enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Defense shall provide to the 
congressional defense committees a briefing on the plan required under 
subsection (b).

SEC. 208. ESTABLISHMENT OF JOINT TRAINING EXERCISES AND IMPROVING 
              RESPONSE CAPABILITIES FOR CONTINGENCY SCENARIOS.

    (a) Sense of Congress.--It is the sense of Congress that--
            (1) the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff should 
        conduct enhanced joint force training and exercises that 
        specifically address full-spectrum threats across combatant 
        commands; and
            (2) the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff should also 
        consider training and exercises that enhance the effectiveness 
        of the joint force, and partnered forces, to deter and respond 
        to operational activities conducted below the threshold of 
        conventional war.
    (b) Availability of Funds.--There is authorized to be appropriated 
to the Department of Defense for fiscal year 2018 $100,000,000 for the 
enhancement of joint training and exercises through the Combatant 
Commanders Exercise Engagement and Training Transformation Program.

             TITLE III--MATTERS RELATING TO FOREIGN NATIONS

SEC. 301. ASSESSMENT OF FREEDOM OF NAVIGATION OPERATIONS IN THE SOUTH 
              CHINA SEA.

    (a) Findings.--Congress finds the following:
            (1) The United States has a national interest in 
        maintaining freedom of navigation, freedom of the seas, respect 
        for international law, and unimpeded lawful commerce, in the 
        South China Sea.
            (2) On February 4, 2017, Secretary of Defense James Mattis 
        stated, ``Freedom of navigation is absolute, and whether it be 
        commercial shipping of our U.S. Navy, we will practice in 
        international waters and transit international waters as 
        appropriate.''.
            (3) In February 24, 2016, Admiral Harry Harris, Jr., 
        Commander of the United States Pacific Command, stated that 
        ``Chinese coercion, artificial island construction, and 
        militarization in the South China Sea threaten the most 
        fundamental aspect of global prosperity--freedom of 
        navigation.''.
            (4) In July 2016, the Permanent Court of Arbitration of the 
        Hague ruled that China's claims to ``historic rights'' across a 
        vast expanse of the South China Sea were not valid under the 
        United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea.
            (5) The Permanent Court also said that none of the land 
        formations in the Spratly Islands in the South China Sea--
        regardless of the party in control--are large enough to warrant 
        an extension of the exclusive maritime zones beyond the 
        existing boundary of 12 miles from disputed features in the 
        South China Sea.
            (6) The United States Navy has routinely conducted freedom 
        of navigation operations within 12 miles of disputed features 
        in the South China Sea.
            (7) On February 24, 2016, Admiral Harris stated that 
        ``these operations [freedom of navigation operations] are an 
        important military tool to demonstrate America's commitment to 
        the rule of law, including the fundamental concept of freedom 
        of navigation''.
    (b) Sense of Congress.--It is the sense of Congress that--
            (1) the United States should condemn any assertion that 
        limits the right to freedom of navigation and overflight; and
            (2) the United States should keep to a regular and routine 
        schedule for Freedom of Navigation Operations in the sea and 
        air.
    (c) Assessment Required.--
            (1) In general.--The Secretary of Defense, in consultation 
        with the Secretary of State, shall conduct an assessment of 
        United States policy on conducting Freedom of Navigation 
        Operation patrols in the South China Sea.
            (2) Elements.--The assessment required under paragraph (1) 
        shall include the following:
                    (A) A review of United States policy regarding 
                freedom of navigation in the global commons, including 
                in the South China Sea.
                    (B) A plan for conducting freedom of navigation 
                operations in the South China Sea with regularity and 
                frequency.
    (d) Report Required.--
            (1) In general.--Not later than September 30, 2017, the 
        Secretary of Defense shall submit to the congressional defense 
        committees, the Committee on Foreign Affairs of the House of 
        Representatives, and the Committee on Foreign Relations of the 
        Senate a report that includes the assessment required under 
        subsection (c).
            (2) Form.--The report required under paragraph (1) shall be 
        submitted in unclassified form and may include a classified 
        annex.

SEC. 302. SENSE OF CONGRESS REAFFIRMING SECURITY COMMITMENTS TO THE 
              GOVERNMENTS OF JAPAN AND SOUTH KOREA AND TRILATERAL 
              COOPERATION BETWEEN THE UNITED STATES, JAPAN, AND SOUTH 
              KOREA.

    It is the sense of Congress that--
            (1) the United States values its alliances with the 
        Governments of Japan and South Korea, based on shared values of 
        democracy, the rule of law, free and open markets, and respect 
        for human rights;
            (2) the United States reaffirms its commitment to these 
        alliances with Japan and South Korea, which are critical for 
        the preservation of peace and stability in the Asia-Pacific 
        region and throughout the world;
            (3) the United States reaffirms its commitment to Article V 
        of the Treaty of Mutual Cooperation and Security between the 
        United States of America and Japan, which applies to the 
        Japanese-administered Senkaku Islands;
            (4) the United States supports continued implementation and 
        expansion of defense cooperation with Japan in accordance with 
        the 2015 U.S.-Japan Defense Guidelines and additional measures 
        to strengthen this defense cooperation, including by expanding 
        foreign military sales, establishing new cooperative technology 
        development programs, increasing military exercises, or other 
        actions as appropriate;
            (5) the United States and South Korea share deep concerns 
        that the nuclear and ballistic missile programs of North Korea 
        and its repeated provocations pose great threats to peace and 
        stability on the Korean Peninsula, and the United States 
        recognizes that South Korea has made important commitments to 
        the bilateral security alliance, including by hosting a 
        Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) system;
            (6) the United States and South Korea should continue 
        further defense cooperation, by enhancing mutual security based 
        on the Mutual Defense Treaty Between the United States and the 
        Republic of Korea and investing in capabilities critical to the 
        combined defense;
            (7) the United States welcomes greater security cooperation 
        with, and among, Japan and South Korea to promote mutual 
        interests and to address shared concerns, including the 
        bilateral military intelligence-sharing pact between Japan and 
        South Korea, signed on November 23, 2016, and the trilateral 
        intelligence sharing agreement between the United States, 
        Japan, and South Korea, signed on December 29, 2015; and
            (8) recognizing that North Korea poses a threat to the 
        United States, Japan, and South Korea, and that the security of 
        the three countries is intertwined, the United States welcomes 
        and encourages deeper trilateral defense cooperation, including 
        through expanded exercises, training, and information sharing 
        that strengthens integration.

SEC. 303. SENSE OF CONGRESS ON THE ASSOCIATION OF SOUTHEAST ASIAN 
              NATIONS.

    (a) Finding.--Congress finds that 2017 is the 50th anniversary of 
the formation of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), 
which includes Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore, 
Thailand, Brunei, Vietnam, Laos, Burma, and Cambodia.
    (b) Sense of Congress.--It is the sense of Congress that--
            (1) the United States supports the development of regional 
        institutions and bodies, including the ASEAN Regional Forum, 
        the ASEAN Defense Ministers Meeting Plus, the East Asia Summit, 
        and the expanded ASEAN Maritime Forum, to increase regional 
        cooperation and ensure that disputes are managed without 
        intimidation, coercion, or force;
            (2) the United States recognizes ASEAN efforts to promote 
        peace, stability, and prosperity in the region, including the 
        steps taken to highlight the importance of peaceful dispute 
        resolution and the need for adherence to international rules 
        and standards.
            (3) United States defense engagement with ASEAN and the 
        ASEAN Defense Ministers Meeting Plus should continue to be 
        forums to discuss shared challenges in the maritime domain and 
        the need for greater information sharing among ASEAN nations; 
        and
            (4) the United States welcomes continued work with ASEAN 
        and other regional partners to establish more reliable and 
        routine crisis communication mechanisms.

SEC. 304. SENSE OF CONGRESS ON STRENGTHENING THE DEFENSE OF TAIWAN.

    It is the sense of Congress that--
            (1) the Taiwan Relations Act (Public Law 96-8; 22 U.S.C. 
        3301 et seq.) codified the basis for commercial, cultural, and 
        other relations between the United States and Taiwan, and the 
        Six Assurances are an important aspect in guiding bilateral 
        relations;
            (2) section 3(a) of that Act states that ``the United 
        States will make available to Taiwan such defense articles and 
        defense services in such quantity as may be necessary to enable 
        Taiwan to maintain a sufficient self-defense capability'';
            (3) the United States, in accordance with such section, 
        should make available and provide timely review of requests for 
        defense articles and defense services that may be necessary for 
        Taiwan to maintain a sufficient self-defense capability;
            (4) Taiwan should significantly increase its defense budget 
        to maintain a sufficient self-defense capability;
            (5) the United States should support expanded exchanges 
        focused on practical training for Taiwan personnel by and with 
        United States military units, including exchanges between 
        services, to empower senior military officers to identify and 
        develop asymmetric and innovative capabilities that strengthen 
        Taiwan's ability to deter aggression;
            (6) the United States should seek opportunities for 
        expanded training and exercises with Taiwan;
            (7) the United States should encourage Taiwan's continued 
        investments in asymmetric self-defense capabilities that are 
        mobile, survivable against threatening forces, and able to take 
        full advantage of Taiwan's geography; and
            (8) the United States should continue to--
                    (A) support humanitarian assistance and disaster 
                relief exercises that increase Taiwan's resiliency and 
                ability to respond to and recover from natural 
                disasters; and
                    (B) recognize Taiwan's already valuable military 
                contributions to such efforts.

SEC. 305. SENSE OF CONGRESS ON REAFFIRMING THE IMPORTANCE OF THE UNITED 
              STATES-AUSTRALIA DEFENSE ALLIANCE.

    (a) Findings.--Congress finds the following:
            (1) The United States and Australia maintain a critical 
        strategic relationship underpinned by shared democratic values, 
        common interests, and strong defense ties.
            (2) In 2017, the United States and Australia will mark the 
        75th anniversary of the Battles of the Coral Sea, Midway, and 
        Guadalcanal, and Australia has been a loyal ally through modern 
        engagements, particularly with respect to international efforts 
        in Afghanistan and against the Islamic State of Iraq and the 
        Levant (ISIL).
            (3) The United States and Australia have been bound by the 
        Security Treaty Between Australia, New Zealand and the United 
        States of America, signed at San Francisco on September 1, 
        1951, which codified military obligations for each party 
        outside as well as within the Pacific region for the 
        preservation of peace and stability.
            (4) The Force Posture Agreement between the Government of 
        Australia and the Government of the United States of America, 
        signed at Sydney on August 12, 2014, strengthened the 
        relationship between the two countries, a relationship that is 
        an anchor for peace and security both in the Asia-Pacific 
        region and worldwide.
            (5) Vice President Michael Pence stated on April 22, 2017, 
        that ``the historic Alliance between the United States and 
        Australia is inviolate, it is immutable, and it is a beacon 
        that shines throughout the Asia Pacific and inspires the wider 
        world''. The Vice President stated that ``the United States 
        will continue to work closely with Australia'' to secure peace 
        in the Asia-Pacific region.
            (6) Former Secretary of Defense Ashton Carter stated in 
        2016 that the United States-Australia alliance continues to be 
        essential in terms of ``accelerating the defeat of ISIL 
        together in Iraq and Syria''.
    (b) Sense of Congress.--It is the sense of Congress that--
            (1) the United States values its alliance with the 
        Government of Australia, and the shared values and interests 
        between both countries are essential to promoting peace, 
        security, stability, and economic prosperity in the Indo-Asia-
        Pacific region;
            (2) the annual rotations of United States Marine Corps 
        forces to Darwin, Australia, and enhanced rotations of United 
        States Air Force aircraft to Australia pave the way for even 
        closer defense and security cooperation;
            (3) the Treaty Between the Government of the United States 
        of America and the Government of Australia Concerning Defense 
        Trade Cooperation, done at Sydney, September 5, 2007, should 
        continue to facilitate industry collaboration and innovation to 
        meet shared security challenges and reinforce military ties;
            (4) as described by Australian Prime Minister Malcolm 
        Turnbull, North Korea is ``a threat to the peace of the 
        region'' and the United States and Australia should continue to 
        cooperate to defend against the threat of North Korea's nuclear 
        and missile capabilities; and
            (5) the United States and Australia also should continue to 
        address the threat of terrorism and strengthen information 
        sharing.
                                 <all>