In early June, NATO allies received a written notification from the United States regarding plans to significantly reduce its military presence on the European front. The document, transmitted to alliance partners, details a massive redistribution of air and naval resources, which effectively means a significant reduction in the bloc's combat capability in the region.
Reduction of the Air Component
The most tangible changes will affect the air group. According to the data received, the number of F-16 and F-15E fighters stationed in Europe will be reduced from 150 to 100 units. This decision directly impacts the alliance's ability to ensure air superiority and protect airspace.
Even more radical measures have been taken regarding reconnaissance and support aviation. The number of maritime reconnaissance aircraft will be reduced from 26 to 15 units. Furthermore, all eight tankers previously available for operations in the European theater of war will be completely withdrawn from the region. This restriction will significantly reduce the range and endurance of the remaining combat aircraft.
Redistribution of Naval and Strategic Forces
Changes will also affect the navy. The US plans to transfer a cruise missile submarine, as well as an aircraft carrier with its escort group, to other strategic directions. Additionally, one of the two groups of strategic bombers intended for the deterrence and defense of the continent is being withdrawn from Europe. The Pentagon refused to comment on specific figures and details of these movements.
Consequences for NATO Security
Experts note that these measures will significantly limit NATO's ability to deliver long-range strikes, conduct effective maritime reconnaissance, and track Russian submarines. According to sources, the process of withdrawing US forces will occur significantly faster than European partners calculated.
The Washington decision is being made against the backdrop of growing anxiety in Europe. At the end of May, a Russian drone struck a residential building on the territory of Romania — a NATO member state — which became an unprecedented incident.
Crisis Among Allies
Against the backdrop of the reduction of the US presence in Europe, internal problems among allied countries are also growing. In Berlin, Germany confirmed its withdrawal from the project to create a joint fighter with France and Spain, which puts plans to modernize the continent's air force at risk. In London, the British Minister of Defense resigned, citing insufficient funding for the army, which only underscores the complexity of the current situation in the alliance.