NATO capabilities in Europe hit by planned US military reductions

The US also aims to redeploy a missile-launching submarine and an aircraft carrier, along with several warships and scores of jets that join the carrier’s missions, the New York Times said, adding that one of two groups of bombers previously assigned for Europe’s defence may also be reallocated.

"Historically there has been an over-reliance on US forces and capabilities," NATO spokesperson Allison Hart told Reuters, adding that as Europe and Canada invest more in defence and develop greater capabilities, the balance of responsibility can shift.

This would strengthen NATO’s defence by reducing reliance on a single ally and reflect a broader change happening within the alliance, Hart said in an emailed statement.