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NATO Rapid Reaction Corps

Asked by Ben Obese-JectyConservativeMinistry of DefenceTabled Answered 8 September 2026UIN 23168

The question

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what assessment has he made of the potential impact on NATO capability as it relates to the UK contribution to ARRC of the withdrawal of the US III Armoured Corps to the newly established Western Hemisphere Command.

Answered by Ministry of Defence

NATO continuously assesses the forces required to deliver its defence plans. The United States remains NATO's indispensable Ally and continues to provide critical leadership, capabilities and command at every level of the Alliance.

European Allies are rightly stepping up, investing more in their own defence and building a Stronger Europe in a Stronger NATO as the Alliance adapts to a more challenging security environment. The UK is a fully committed Ally, offering almost all its Armed Forces to NATO, including key high-end capabilities across all domains, and we continue to review and strengthen our contribution. Within this, the UK operates as the framework nation for the Allied Rapid Reaction Corps, which has a key role to play in NATO’s warfighting plans.

The Government has full confidence in NATO’s ability to deter and defend against any threat.

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