European NATO member states need to prepare to deter, and if necessary, defeat Russia—with less US support. When it comes to airpower, here are the actions European states need to take in the short, medium, and long term.
Report
June 10, 2026 • 4:41 pm ET
Edward Brady
Bottom lines up front
NATO’s European allies must determine how to carry out the Alliance’s mission with reduced US military support as Washington shifts resources toward the Indo-Pacific.NATO airpower remains heavily dependent on US enabling capabilities. To preserve credible deterrence, allies must prioritize resilient C2 networks, deeper stockpiles, stronger airbase resilience, and autonomous and attritable systems.
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