USAFE stands for the United States Air Forces in Europe and Air Forces Africa. It is a major command of the United States Air Force responsible for directing air and space operations in the European and African continents. The mission of USAFE is to support U.S. national security objectives and promote regional stability by providing combat-ready forces and capabilities for sustained air, space, and cyberspace operations.
With its headquarters located at Ramstein Air Base in Germany, USAFE is divided into numbered air forces responsible for different geographic regions. These numbered air forces command and control assigned combat and support units, ensuring they are prepared to deliver responsive and efficient airpower whenever called upon.
USAFE plays a vital role in maintaining the U.S. military presence, deterrence, and cooperation with NATO (North Atlantic Treaty Organization) allies in Europe. It conducts a wide range of operations, such as air superiority, intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance, airlift, aerial refueling, and close air support.
Additionally, USAFE maintains partnerships and engages with African nations, supporting their security interests in order to build strong relationships and enhance cooperation. This enables the United States to effectively respond to emerging security challenges and threats in the African region.
Overall, USAFE is a critical component of the United States' global defense strategy, ensuring air superiority and projecting power across Europe and Africa to protect U.S. interests, support allies, and deter potential adversaries.
