US to cut fighter jets and warships for NATO operations in Europe by one third

Specifically, Washington plans to reduce the number of F-16 and F-15E fighter jets from around 150 to 100, according to the report. This would noticeably shrink the fighter jet fleet available to the Alliance. The number of maritime patrol aircraft is also set to fall from 26 to 15, the New York Times wrote, citing the insiders.

In addition, all eight tanker aircraft previously earmarked for Europe are to be withdrawn completely. These aircraft are important for enabling fighter jets to carry out longer operations in the air. Without them, the range at which NATO formations can reach targets beyond the European continent will decrease.

Impact on NATO capabilities

The planned cuts would limit NATO's ability to carry out strikes on more distant targets and to fly reconnaissance missions. From the perspective of European observers, this reduces the Alliance's strategic room for maneuver in several scenarios — from air surveillance in the eastern part of Alliance territory to possible operations in outlying regions.

According to the newspaper, the exact way in which the reductions are to be implemented remains unclear. It is also unclear over what period the US intends to withdraw the aircraft and ships, and which allies could fill the gaps. The insiders quoted described the plans as advanced but not yet finally decided.

Reactions and open questions

The timing of the report comes at a time when European NATO states are increasing their defense spending and discussing a more independent security policy. A noticeable reduction in the US contribution would further fuel this debate. At the same time, concern is growing in several capitals that the US could focus more strongly on other regions.

The New York Times cites two senior European insiders. This was reported by the New York Times on Thursday, citing two senior European insiders. Neither NATO nor the Pentagon has so far confirmed or commented on the plans. It therefore remains unclear whether these are formal decisions or projects still in the planning stage.

If the reduction is actually implemented, it would be one of the most far-reaching changes to the US military presence for NATO in Europe in years. European governments would then have to decide whether to expand their own capabilities, jointly build new ones, or accept the gap. The report is likely to further intensify discussions about burden-sharing within the Alliance.