NATO's Return to REFORGER 2023
485NATO REFORGER (Return of Forces to Germany) was a strategy developed by NATO during the Cold War to provide a rapid response to a potential Soviet invasion of Western Europe. The strategy involved the regular deployment of large numbers of US troops and equipment from the United States to Europe, to participate in military exercises and to be positioned in strategic locations in the event of a crisis.
The primary goal of the REFORGER strategy was to demonstrate the United States' commitment to the defense of Europe and to deter any potential Soviet aggression. By maintaining a constant presence of troops and equipment in Europe, NATO hoped to deter the Soviet Union from launching an attack, as they would be met with a significant military response.
The REFORGER strategy involved the deployment of a range of military assets, including tanks, artillery, and other heavy equipment, as well as personnel, to Europe. These forces would then participate in large-scale military exercises with NATO allies, which helped to improve their readiness and coordination in the event of a conflict.
Overall, the NATO REFORGER strategy was a key component of the alliance's efforts to deter Soviet aggression and maintain peace in Europe during the Cold War. Although the strategy is no longer in use today, its legacy continues to shape NATO's approach to collective defense and deterrence in the region.