A contingent of 200 U.S. troops begin a deployment in Darwin, Australia - part of a growing U.S. military presence in the Asia Pacific.<br/> <br />The operation has sparked concern in China, where officials have questioned whether it's part of a U.S. strategy to thwart the country's rise as a global power.<br/> <br />The U.S. ambassador to Australia said the aim of the military presence is to maintain peace and prosperity in a changing region.<br/> <br />(SOUNDBITE) (English) UNITED STATES AMBASSADOR TO AUSTRALIA JEFFREY BLEICH:<br/> <br />"This is the fastest growing economic area and also the one that is enduring the greatest demographic change, and we want to make sure that it continues to be a peaceful prosperous and stable area. The way that we accomplish this is by ensuring that trade routes are open and that we're prepared for any issue that could come up."<br/> <br />The tropical port of Darwin is around 800 kilometres from Indonesia, allowing the marines to respond quickly to any potential security issues in Southeast Asia.<br/> <br />The force is expected to grow over time to become a 2,500 strong Marine Air Ground Task Force, with different units moving through for short periods rather than being stationed permanently.<br/> <br />Simon Hanna, Reuters.
