United States Plans Significant Reduction of Fighter Jets and Warships for NATO Operations in Europe

The United States intends to significantly reduce the aircraft and warships it makes available for NATO operations in Europe, according to a New York Times report citing senior European officials. This decision would limit NATO's ability to launch long-range strikes and conduct surveillance. The plan includes cutting F-16 and F-15E fighter jets from approximately 150 to 100, reducing maritime reconnaissance aircraft, and redeploying a missile-launching submarine and an aircraft carrier. NATO spokesperson Allison Hart noted that this shift reflects Europe and Canada's increased investment in defense.