On Tuesday, July 11, the Atlantic Council hosted General Philip M. Breedlove, nominated to become the next commander of US Air Forces in Europe, for an off-the-record strategy session to discuss the challenges and opportunities he will face as commander. Participants advised General Breedlove on a variety of topics, from regional partnerships to budgetary constraints, and the implications for the United States and Europe.

The United States Air Forces in Europe is the air component for US European Command and US Africa Command, and will continue to play a vital and increasing role internationally as the United States and Europe face global security issues with implications for the transatlantic community.

General Breedlove currently serves as Vice Chief of Staff of the US Air Force. Prior to his current role, he served as the Deputy Chief of Staff for Operations, Plans and Requirements, and as Vice Director for Strategic Plans and Policies. With nine overseas tours, General Breedlove has completed over 3,500 flying hours as a command pilot.

This is part of a series of strategy sessions hosted by the Atlantic Council for prominent officials transitioning to important new commands. The Atlantic Council has previously hosted similar sessions for Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense for the Middle East Matt Spence, Supreme Allied Commander Europe Admiral Jim Stavridis, and Commander of NATO’s Allied Command Transformation General Stéphane Abrial among others.