Sources: The U.S. Will Reduce the Warplanes and Navy Ships Available for NATO Operations in Europe

SadaNews - The New York Times reported on Friday, citing two senior European officials, that the United States intends to make a significant reduction in the number of warplanes and navy ships it provides for NATO operations in Europe.

The newspaper's report indicated that this decision will limit NATO's capability to launch long-range strikes and conduct surveillance operations. It added that the U.S. plan includes reducing the number of F-16 and F-15E fighter jets from about 150 to 100, in addition to cutting the number of maritime reconnaissance aircraft from 26 to 15, and withdrawing all the air refueling aircraft previously provided to Europe, totaling eight aircraft, according to Reuters.

The newspaper noted that the plan also aims to redeploy a missile-launching submarine and an aircraft carrier, along with several warships and dozens of aircraft joining the carrier missions. It pointed out that one of the two formations of bombers previously designated for defense in Europe may also be sent on missions to other locations.

Reuters reported in May that the United States intends to reduce the military capabilities it provides to its allies during a major crisis.