The U.S. Department of War announced June 17 CHamoru Standard time that the Indo-Pacific Command would now revert to its original name of Pacific Command.
“Restoring the legacy USPACOM designation honors the command’s deep historical roots, fostering a sense of pride and collective spirit among all who serve in the Pacific,” the release said.
The area of responsibility — from the waters off the West Coast of the United States to the western border of India —remains the same, the release said.
In related news, three RQ-4B Global Hawks operated by the 4th Reconnaissance Squadron permanently relocated from Andersen Air Force Base to Yokota Air Force Base. Better weather resilience was given as one reason for moving the drones, but Yokota is also closer to the First Island Chain of Japan, Taiwan and the Philippines where Chinese activity is increasingly seen.
Also, the U.S. House version of the fiscal 2027 National Defense Authorization now heads to the House floor from the Armed Services Committee before negotiations begin with the Senate.
According to the office of James C. Moylan, Guam’s delegate to Congress, this version of the NDAA contains nearly $1.9 billion for Guam. Among the major priorities for Guam are $249.06 million for military housing which includes replacement housing at Andersen the extension of H-2B workforce provisions through 2035, funding for the Polaris Point Submarine Pier and Inner Apra Harbor resiliency projects, evaluating basing Coast Guard fixed-wing aircraft and C-130 aircraft in Guam, Living Quarter Allowance mortgage relief for DoW civilian employees, and career and technical education programs in construction fields. mbj
