US to Cut One-Third of Fighter Jets for NATO Operations in Europe

Washington intends to cut approximately one-third of the fighter jets assigned to NATO operations in Europe, The New York Times reported on Friday, citing a document. The plan, which was conveyed to European allies in early June, involves reducing the number of deployed F-16 and F-15E jets to around 100 from the current 150. Maritime patrol aircraft numbers will also be cut to 15 from 26, while eight aerial refuelling tankers will be withdrawn from European operations. Additionally, the US plans to redeploy one submarine armed with missiles, one aircraft carrier, several warships, and dozens of aircraft currently supporting carrier strike group missions. One of the two bomber task forces previously assigned to European defence is also reportedly set to be moved to another region.