So are VMFA-211 and DDG-68 no longer in the same chain of command as the US SECDEF? As West Coast implies, I think the Indian and Malaysian Navies (and their Governments) are not be alone in welcoming having more than just the USN demonstrating a commitment to the rule of law in the Indian Ocean and South China.
If General (rtd) Austin is hinting that the UK needs to address its overstretch by investing more in defence capabilities, then I wouldn't disagree. I wonder if he has some residual doubts from a perception of the effects overstretch on the UK's commitment to operations Iraq or Afghanistan during his commands there? As a trained counsellor I would have thought he would know the importance of listening carefully before giving advice.