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Europe to Fill NATO Defence Gaps Left by US

Simon Blake 05.07.2026

Closing the Bomber Gap

NATO's European members are set to announce they've filled nearly all defence gaps at next week's Ankara summit, according to a NATO source. The alliance has been working to address shortfalls since the US reduced its contributions. The summit is expected to reveal the progress made.

The main challenge for NATO has been its lack of strategic bombers, after the US agreed to provide only one aircraft instead of two. European members have been working to fill this and other gaps, including logistics and air defence capabilities. The US decision to scale back its contribution had raised concerns about the alliance's overall defence capabilities.

Can Europe Sustain NATO's Defence?

NATO officials have been working closely with European members to identify areas where they can step up their contributions. The alliance has been seeking to bolster its defence plans, which were previously reliant on US assets. European countries have been increasing their military spending and capabilities to fill the gaps.

The success of NATO's defence plans will depend on European members' ability to maintain their increased contributions. The alliance will need to ensure that its European members can sustain their efforts over the long term. If they can, NATO's defence capabilities will be significantly enhanced.

Frequently Asked Questions

The outcome of the Ankara summit will be closely watched, as it will demonstrate the alliance's ability to adapt to changing circumstances. If European members can fill the gaps left by the US, NATO's defence plans will be more robust and sustainable.

What is the main gap NATO is struggling to fill? NATO is struggling to fill its strategic bomber gap, as the US is providing only one aircraft instead of two. How are European members contributing to NATO's defence plans? European countries are increasing their military spending and capabilities to fill gaps in logistics, air defence, and other areas. What is the significance of the Ankara summit? The summit will reveal the progress made by European members in filling defence gaps and demonstrate NATO's ability to adapt to changing circumstances.

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