Emerging challenges in critical domains were the key focus of the recent Comprehensive Security Cooperation (CSC25-1) course hosted by the Daniel K. Inouye Asia-Pacific Center for Security Studies from February 5 to March 12, 2025, in Honolulu.

The intensive five-week course helped build capacity for allies and partners by leveraging the different perspectives, skills, and experiences of its multinational Fellows, which included 89 participants from 35 countries around the world. CSC 25-1 focused on critical security domains—Cyber, Space, and Maritime Security—providing Fellows with strategic insights into emerging challenges and opportunities. Through plenary sessions, scenario-based exercises, simulations, and specialized electives, the course fosters collaboration and strengthens the capacity of security practitioners to address complex security threats.

Fellows had an opportunity to hear from several significant guest speakers, including: Admiral Samuel J. Paparo, Commander of U.S. Indo-Pacific Command; General Stephen N. Whiting, Commander, Commander of U.S. Space Command; Admiral Stephen T. Koehler, Commander, U.S. Pacific Fleet; and former USINDOPACOM Commander retired Admiral Philip S. Davidson.

Adm. Paparo engaged with participants, which included mid-level military, government, and non-government security practitioners from the Indo-Pacific region and beyond, promoting security collaboration and strategic dialogue. Admiral Whiting discussed U.S. Space Command’s responsibilities and challenges.

Adm. Koehler spoke to the Fellows about the Pacific Fleet, leadership, and the value of unexpected kindness. Finally, Admiral Davidson spoke about his experiences in the Indo-Pacific region and also fielded questions from Fellows regarding current security trends.

Each Fellow, or a cohort of Fellows, begins a project they will finalize after the course. During this course, a cohort from Papua New Guinea came together to work on a project related to establishing Papua New Guinea’s National Maritime Security Fusion Centre (PNG NMSFC). The Centre is a strategic initiative under NEC Decision No. 312 of 2024, aimed at strengthening integrated ocean management through enhanced maritime domain awareness, interagency coordination, and intelligence-sharing. As part of the project, the cohort is developing three key lines of effort, including a concept paper, Inter-Agency Coordination Framework (MOUs with Relevant Stakeholders), and Standards Operating Procedures (SOPs).

As one of the key members of this missional oceans committee, Ernest Ila Ilarupa, senior advising Officer for Border Enforcement with the PNG Customs Service, reflected on its purpose: “It is an opportunity to learn from each other, evolve, and understand the security concepts in a comprehensive way. Also, learning from the bigger players (in the region) like the United States and hearing of their challenges will give us a means of leverage to see ahead. That’s why I’m here.”

For DKI APCSS Director Suzanne Puanani Vares-Lum, CSC 25-1 marked her first course as director.

“Embarking on a new journey with the fellows of my first Comprehensive Security Cooperation (25-1) course as the Director of DKI APCSS was nothing short of inspiring, said Director Vares-Lum. “As an alumnus, it struck me with renewed force: this institution is a cornerstone of strength, empowering the United States and our allies and partners to confront the Indo-Pacific’s most daunting challenges head-on while forging real solutions and life-long relationships. I watched in awe as this course ignited the bonds of friendship across 35 nations, as it did for me over 10 years ago, planting seeds of alliances and partnerships for the future.”

In a post-course LinkedIn post, CSC 25-1 Fellow Anthony Galloway said, “At such a critical time, it was a pleasure to meet dozens of fellow participants from all over the world who had brilliant insights on the security challenges facing the Indo-Pacific. Forged many great relationships, and it will be an experience I will never forget.”

The next course will be held May 7 –June 11, 2025.