Blow to NATO: US Plans to Withdraw a Third of Fighter Jets Destined for European Defense

The United States is preparing to significantly scale back its military contributions to NATO operations in Europe, according to a document shared with allies and reviewed by The New York Times. The plan signals a clear intention by the Trump administration to decrease American military involvement in Europe and reallocate resources, particularly towards the Indo-Pacific region.

Key reductions include a decrease in the number of F-16 and F-15E fighter jets available for NATO operations, from around 150 to 100. The U.S. also intends to reduce its fleet of maritime patrol aircraft and withdraw all eight aerial refueling planes previously assigned to European allies. Furthermore, a missile-capable submarine, an aircraft carrier, and other warships involved in European missions are slated for redistribution.

While the Pentagon has not officially commented on the specific figures, the U.S. European Command has acknowledged that it is reviewing its military commitments in Europe. Officials suggest these changes could be implemented sooner than anticipated by some European nations, with an unspecified but near-future timeline.

This reduction in U.S. military presence could impact NATO's ability to monitor Russian military activities and conduct long-distance maritime operations. However, U.S. troops will continue to form a significant component of the alliance's military strength on the continent. The move occurs as several European countries have accelerated their own armament programs amid the war in Ukraine and uncertainties surrounding American support. The U.S. has consistently urged European allies to increase their defense spending and rely less on American military backing, with former President Donald Trump frequently criticizing their spending levels.