As the geopolitical landscape continues to move toward an increasingly multipolar system, the risk of miscalculations, conflict, and war likewise increases. As the U.S. increases its focus on the Indo-Pacific, it is important that both the U.S. and its allies and partners are well-prepared for the changing regional dynamics. U.S. Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth has emphasized the importance of avoiding but being prepared for, confrontation with the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) in the Indo-Pacific theater. Avoiding war is best done through a variety of actions and will require the help of U.S. partners and allies. Achieving this preparedness requires strengthening the warrior ethos, contributing to deterrence, and enhancing alliances and partnerships. As the only U.S. Department of Defense regional center focused solely on the Indo-Pacific, The Daniel K. Inouye Asia-Pacific Center for Security Studies (DKI APCSS) actively contributes to meeting these U.S. national security objectives.