U.S. Cuts NATO Crisis Forces, Threatens Dues as 6-Month Europe Troop Review Starts
Updated
Updated · Defense News · Jun 18
U.S. Cuts NATO Crisis Forces, Threatens Dues as 6-Month Europe Troop Review Starts
3 articles · Updated · Defense News · Jun 18
Summary
U.S. reductions to NATO’s crisis-force pool took effect immediately, with F-15 and F-15E jets cut by one-third to 99 and MQ-4/MQ-9 drones halved to 12, according to a military source.
Pete Hegseth paired those cuts with a review of U.S. troop deployments in Europe lasting up to six months, saying Washington wants Europe to assume primary responsibility for its defense while preserving U.S. capacity for other conflicts.
Hegseth also warned the U.S. could withhold some NATO dues from allies he said were still “free riding” on defense spending and criticized countries that denied U.S. basing or overflight rights during the Iran war.
European allies are scrambling to fill the gaps before NATO’s July 7-8 summit in Ankara: Belgium offered more F-16s and MQ-9B drones, while Germany warned fast U.S. withdrawals could leave dangerous capability gaps, especially in deep-strike weapons.
Can Europe's defense industry fill the 'dangerous capability gaps' before the U.S. military drawdown creates a security vacuum?
With allies meeting spending goals, why is the U.S. withdrawing critical forces and demanding a new 5% commitment?
How will the dispute over basing rights during the Iran war reshape the fundamental obligations of NATO members?
U.S. Announces Major 2026 Force Reductions in Europe: NATO Faces Urgent Capability Gaps and Strategic Rebalancing
Overview
In June 2026, the U.S. Defense Secretary announced a six-month Pentagon review of American forces in Europe, signaling a possible shift in military posture. This move came as the Secretary criticized NATO allies and made clear that future U.S. troop levels would depend on increased European defense contributions. Intelligence assessments indicated that Russia, preoccupied with the war in Ukraine and not seeking conflict with NATO, allowed the U.S. to reconsider its presence. The review aims to encourage European nations to take more responsibility for their own security, aligning U.S. resources with the changing threat environment and alliance expectations.