I wasn’t using the word protectorate in a legal sense. It is the way the US views and treats the world. Europe, South Korea, Japan are other examples. They are all quite capable of sending their own tax dollars on defending themselves, but instead we spend our tax dollars to defend them. It is military welfare.
We will always go to war for Disputed Island.
Prepare to sacrifice your life so that the mangrove swamps of Disputed Island will remain free from Eastasian warmongering.
Also believe in the Nine Narratives.
Excuse me, I am being handed a note.
Always believe in the Ten Narratives.
Historically, that model is truly disastrous. FF to the present and add nukes. Then you have real fun.
That doesn't mean Europe, for example, can't do more. The original NATO 2% guideline is probably about right for them, but that still leaves a considerable need for the US as big dog.