politics
U.S. plans to cut fighter jets and warships for NATO operations in Europe
The United States intends to reduce the number of fighter jets, aerial refueling tankers, and warships it contributes to NATO operations in Europe. The reductions would lower available F-16 and F-15E aircraft from roughly 150 to 100 and scale back other assets.
Jun 12, 5:31 AM·1m read4 sources
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The United States plans to reduce the fighter jets and warships it makes available for NATO operations in Europe. The proposed cuts would lower the number of F-16 and F-15E fighter jets from approximately 150 to 100. The reductions would also remove all eight aerial refueling tanker jets previously allocated to the region and lower maritime reconnaissance aircraft from 26 to 15.
One of two bomber groups assigned to European defense may be reallocated.
the proposed reductions Further changes would redeploy a missile-launching submarine, an aircraft carrier, several warships, and supporting jets. U.S. Eastern Command stated last week that it would "rightsize" its contributions to the NATO Force Model without providing additional details.
The New York Times reported the planned reductions, citing two senior European officials. Reuters was unable to immediately verify the report.
NATO posture The Trump administration has repeatedly stated that allies have underinvested in their own military capabilities. Officials have also indicated that the United States may adjust its NATO commitments. >"When our interests align, we act together with focused resolve. When our interests diverge, we adjust pragmatically without the drama or the moralising.
