NATO Plans New Defense Scenarios Against Russian Attack

NATO's supreme military commander, General Alex Grynkewich, is considering alternative plans to defend Europe in the event of a Russian attack, after the United States announced a reduction in some of the alliance's military capabilities, Fortune reported.

The changes relate to the NATO Force Model, which determines what military assets commanders can draw on during the first six months of a potential conflict. European countries and Canada have been asked to fill the capability gaps, particularly in manned and unmanned aircraft and naval forces.

The exact extent of the US cuts has not been disclosed. Reports in Germany and the US suggest that an aircraft carrier with escort vessels, a submarine, air refueling aircraft and dozens of fighter jets could leave the European battlespace. Several of these capabilities are lacking in Europe and it is not clear how quickly they could be replaced.

Washington wants to know the allies' plans before the NATO summit in Turkey on 7 and 8 July.

Grynkewich said intelligence reports indicate that Russia is not currently seeking a conflict with NATO, but European governments and intelligence services continue to warn that Russia could be in a position to attack other parts of Europe within three to five years, particularly if it succeeds in the war in Ukraine.

(max)