Tensions with Russia, US and NATO rush to change military structure
Rising tensions with Russia have led NATO and its members to make changes to the military structure in Europe.
Meanwhile, the US decided to re-establish the 2nd Fleet to patrol the North Atlantic.
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| Tensions with Russia, the US and NATO rushed to change the military structure. |
After 65 years of service, the Second Fleet was deactivated in September 2011 as part of cost savings and restructuring. Many of the personnel and responsibilities were assigned to the US Fleet Forces Command.
The "revival" of the Second Fleet is part of a shift the US is moving toward in preparation for a potential major conflict.
"Our national defense strategy makes clear that we are returning to an era of great power competition, as the security environment becomes more challenging and complex," said Admiral John Richardson, Chief of Naval Operations.
"The 2nd Fleet will exercise administrative and operational authority over assigned amphibious forces, aircraft, and ships on the East Coast and in the Atlantic Ocean," Richardson added.
2nd Fleet will also plan and conduct combined operations, joint operations at sea, and train, sustain, and provide maritime forces to respond to events occurring around the world.
The fleet will be reactivated on July 1.
NATO is also making several changes to its command structure in preparation for potential military operations in and around Europe.
In March, Germany announced a proposed NATO Logistics Command, to be based in the southern city of Ulm, that would coordinate the movement of personnel and material around Europe.
A new command NATO wants to create would monitor and defend the North Atlantic. In the event of a conflict with Russia, it would be responsible for ensuring open sea lanes for US reinforcements to Europe.
