The new defense strategy that was unveiled by President Barack Obama last week emphasizes a strong American military presence in the Pacific at the expense of the Atlantic realm. Although the document underscores the United States’ “enduring interests” in Europe, it also suggests that the force posture there must “evolve” in recognition of a strategic shift to East Asia.

I don’t think it’s going to happen. You can read why in my article for the Atlantic Sentinel but here’s the gist of it:

As long as the United States far outspend European nations in defense and maintain an extended and permanent military presence on the continent, there is little incentive for NATO partners there to enhance their own defenses. There may be a “dwindling appetite and patience in the US Congress,” as [defense secretary Robert] Gates put it, to continue to make up for Europe’s lack of an independent defense capacity; if [Leon] Panetta believes that he has to “make clear” to Europe that he is “committed” to its security nonetheless, there won’t be any change.

There may be some change in that a combat brigade is withdrawn from Europe but at the same time, the United States building a missile shield over the continent which is a far more expensive but also a far more effective way of protecting Europe.