WASHINGTON (Sputnik) — The US Army is also considering reducing US forces in Alaska by removing two brigade combat teams. The move is a response to ongoing US military budget challenges.
Breedlove continued that EUCOM has developed “an initiative called the Russian Strategic Initiative, where all the COCOM (combatant command) who touch Russia have come together.”
The European Command is at the head of the effort to “make sure we do not end up having these seams” between EUCOM, US Pacific Command, and US Northern Command.
The three commands have overlapping responsibilities for the northern region next to Russian territory.
Breedlove expressed his concern over Russia’s upgraded presence in the Arctic, and emphasized that he “would not recommend reducing [US] capabilities in the North.”
The United States currently lacks transportation and other critical infrastructure, which limits its capabilities in the Arctic, according to statements from US military and diplomatic personnel.
Russia’s 2014-2020 military doctrine calls for building Russian defense capabilities in the Arctic. Russia has moved ahead in fielding a new Arctic Command, four new Arctic brigades, developing 11 new airfields, and adding to its icebreaker fleet.
