Guam strengthens defense as US marines arrive, missile test hits milestone

The United States has taken significant steps to fortify Guam, its Pacific territory closest to China, with the arrival of the first Marines from Okinawa and the successful completion of its inaugural missile defense test on the island.

On Saturday, about 100 U.S. Marines landed in Guam as the vanguard of a planned redeployment of 5,000 troops under a security treaty between the U.S. and Japan. The troop movement coincides with the passage of the 2025 National Defense Authorization Act, which allocates over $2 billion in military funding for Guam.

“This is a critical moment in our strategy to ensure stability in the Indo-Pacific,” said a U.S. Marine Corps spokesperson. “Our forward presence and routine engagement with allies and partners are essential to deterring attempts to change the status quo by force or coercion.”

Guam, nicknamed the “tip of the spear” for its strategic proximity to China, remains a potential target in any conflict between the two powers. Tensions have heightened following China’s ballistic missile test in September, which crossed near Guam and other Pacific territories.

Last Tuesday, the Missile Defense Agency conducted its first test on Guam, firing an interceptor missile from Andersen Air Force Base. The test successfully downed a simulated medium-range ballistic missile more than 200 nautical miles northeast of the island.

“This marked a pivotal step in the defense of Guam,” said Deputy Pentagon Press Secretary Sabrina Singh. “It provides critical support to the future Guam defense system, which will feature 360-degree protection across 16 planned sites.”

Local reactions to these developments have been mixed. Nanette Reyes-Senior, a resident of Maina village, expressed surprise at the missile test. “I was extremely surprised the launch happened without prior public notice—unless there was a notice I missed,” she said.

Robert Underwood, chairman of the Guam-based Pacific Center for Island Security, echoed the need for transparency. “The missile testing was announced, but no specific week, let alone date, was provided,” he said. “With more tests coming, the general public, especially landowners, must be given advance notice.”

However, some residents welcomed the defense initiatives. Robert Celestial, president of the Pacific Association of Radiation Survivors, said the missile test was necessary. “China has 2,300 ballistic missiles, numerous ICBMs, and 320 nuclear warheads. It’s evident we are preparing for war, so we must prepare to protect the civilian population,” he stated. “Growing up in the ’60s, we had duck-and-cover drills. I feel better prepared now than [to] suffer later.”

Guam’s role as a military stronghold dates back to World War II, but recent geopolitical tensions have placed the island squarely in the path of potential conflict. Taiwanese President Lai Ching-te’s visit to Guam earlier this month further highlighted its strategic importance, raising fears among locals.

Shelly Vargas-Calvo, a senator-elect for the Guam legislature, supported the recent developments. “I applaud the successful test launch,” she said. “It is imperative to show power and capability. Despite our small footprint, this sends a clear message: we and our allies are not to be messed with.”

Japan will contribute $2.8 billion toward infrastructure projects on Guam, including Naval Base Guam, Andersen Air Force Base, and Marine Corps Base Camp Blaz, which is being prepared to accommodate the relocated troops.

“This is about preparing Guam for the future while protecting it today,” said a U.S. military official. “The Indo-Pacific region’s stability depends on our readiness and the cooperation of our allies.”