The United States plans to significantly reduce its military support for NATO operations in Europe. This decision, revealed in a written document reviewed by The New York Times, marks a shift in the U.S.’s longstanding commitment to European defense.

According to two senior European officials, the U.S. will limit the aircraft and warships available for NATO missions. This move affects NATO’s capacity to carry out long-range strikes and surveillance operations.

Key Drawdowns

• Reducing F-16 and F-15E fighter jets from 150 to 100
• Decreasing maritime reconnaissance aircraft from 26 to 15
• Eliminating all eight aerial refueling tanker jets for Europe
• Reallocating a missile-launching submarine and an aircraft carrier
• Reassigning jets that join the carrier’s missions
• Withdrawing one of two bomber groups previously for Europe’s defense

The Pentagon did not comment on specific numbers but mentioned a general intention to reduce commitments in Europe. This decision accelerates the U.S.’s effort to scale back its European defense responsibilities, a policy initiated under the Trump administration.

Implications for NATO

NATO was formed after World War II to protect European allies from threats like the Soviet Union. European countries still consider NATO essential for deterring Russia. The planned U.S. departure is expected to impact NATO’s ability to monitor Russian military activities and use long-range missiles for deterrence.

Though European nations have similar missile capabilities, experts note that U.S. involvement provides a stronger deterrent to Russia. The sudden reduction of U.S. forces will occur earlier than many European nations anticipated.

This development underscores a significant shift in the U.S.’s defense strategy in Europe, prompting NATO allies to reassess their military strategies and investments.