The US military is planning a permanent weapons stockpile for its Marine Corps on Australia’s southeast coast, a first for the Marine Corps in Australia. The location was chosen for its position beyond the range of most Chinese missiles, as part of efforts to counter China’s military build-up. The US seeks to leverage Australia’s strategic location in the South Pacific to support sustained operations across the Indo-Pacific. The Marine Corps has historically used floating stores and underground facilities, such as those in Norway, for pre-positioned supplies during the Cold War. The first land-based stockpile in the Asia-Pacific is expected to open this year in the Philippines, near potential flashpoints in the South China Sea. Documents published by the US Navy this month show advanced planning for an even larger Australian stockpile. According to the Bangkok Post, US Defence Minister Richard Marles said the plans are part of an increasing US military presence in the country and important for national security. A US Marine Corps Forces Pacific spokesperson, as reported by The Hindu, said Marine Corps activities in Australia support integrated global sustainment by maintaining ready-for-issue equipment and supplies for operations and exercises across the Indo-Pacific.