WASHINGTON (AP) — The Pentagon is announcing the official launch of a new naval command that will bolster America and NATO's presence in the Atlantic, amid escalating worries about Russia.
Outlines of the plan were approved at the February meeting of NATO defense ministers, as part of a broader effort to ensure the security of the sea lanes and lines of communication between Europe and North America.
The decision reflects growing fear across Europe and within NATO over Russia's increased military presence and patrols in the Atlantic region. Under the new plan, the U.S. will set up NATO's new Atlantic Command headquarters in Norfolk, Va.
At the same time, the U.S. Navy is re-establishing its 2nd Fleet command, which was eliminated in 2011 in a move to save money.
