Just recently I was contemplating the future of USAFE.
I think this is the most threatened component of the USAF commands. Closing USA based bases and deactivating USA based squadrons is becoming almost impossible due to Congressional opposition to cutting anything that could affect local economies.
Given refocusing of US interests to Asia Pacific, it means it can’t really touch PACAF.
That leaves USAFE as a potential savings measure. Already 1 of the 7 USAFE fighter squadrons is scheduled to deactivate in 2013 (81 FS with A-10).
And lo and behold DoD is looking for a BRAC like review of more European based bases for closure:
It could be that USAFE becomes like the old 17th AF (USAFRICACOM) with no permanent assigned squadrons. Instead squadrons are assigned on an as and when required basis.
Current USAFE strength (not including detachments, embassy flights or Special Operations):
3rd Air Force
31st Fighter Wing Aviano AB, Italy
510 FS – F-16C/D
555 FS – F-16C/D
48th Fighter Wing RAF Lakenheath UK
492 FS – F-15E
493 FS – F-15C/D
494 FS – F15E
56 RS – HH-60G
52nd Fighter Wing Spangdahlem AB, Germany
81 FS – A-10 – TO BE DEACTIVATED on 10 MAY 2013
480 FS – F-16C/D
86th Airlift Wing – Ramstein Air Base, Germany
37 AS – C-130J
76 AS – C-20H, C-21A, C-37A, C-40B
309 AS – C-37A (at Chièvres Air Base, Belgium. Supports NATO Command)
100th Refuelling Wing– RAF Mildenhall UK
351st ARS – KC-135R
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April 30, 2013 at 3:42 am