New U.S. Indo-Pacific commander vows to avoid great power conflict New U.S. Indo-Pacific Command chief Adm. John Aquilino pledged Friday to maintain a "free and open" region and provide the deterrence needed to prevent "great power conflict" amid China's growing assertiveness. Calling the rules-based international order the foundation for the region to thrive and prosper, Aquilino said during a change of command ceremony in Hawaii to replace Adm. Philip Davidson that the environment the United States and its allies have created for decades is "being challenged." New U.S. Indo-Pacific Command chief Adm. John Aquilino. (Photo courtesy of U.S. Navy)(Kyodo)