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On Feb. 6, U.S. President Trump declared through yet another executive order that the United States would abide by a new “America First” arms export strategy. The goal of the strategy is to “ensure that future arms sales prioritize American interests by using foreign purchases and capital to build American production and capacity.” Importantly, the Trump administration established a prioritization rubric for judging whether an ally or partner is eligible for receiving U.S.-made weapons. It states that the “United States will prioritize arms sales and transfers to partners that have invested in their own self-defense and capabilities, have a critical role or geography in United States plans and operations, or contribute to our economic security.”

Based on the above criteria, most Southeast Asian countries are likely to face greater difficulties in securing U.S. weaponry. To be sure, not every state in the region seeks Washington’s assistance—nor can every state afford it. However, those that are interested may be in for a rude awakening as they encounter a new U.S. paradigm in which they receive little to nothing from Washington.

On Feb. 6, U.S. President Trump declared through yet another executive order that the United States would abide by a new “America First” arms export strategy. The goal of the strategy is to “ensure that future arms sales prioritize American interests by using foreign purchases and capital to build American production and capacity.” Importantly, the Trump administration established a prioritization rubric for judging whether an ally or partner is eligible for receiving U.S.-made weapons. It states that the “United States will prioritize arms sales and transfers to partners that have invested in their own self-defense and capabilities, have a critical role or geography in United States plans and operations, or contribute to our economic security.”

Based on the above criteria, most Southeast Asian countries are likely to face greater difficulties in securing U.S. weaponry. To be sure, not every state in the region seeks Washington’s assistance—nor can every state afford it. However, those that are interested may be in for a rude awakening as they encounter a new U.S. paradigm in which they receive little to nothing from Washington.

This will prompt them to seek weapons deliveries from others, be they U.S. friends or adversaries. In the end, Trump’s new arms........

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