Army consolidates Europe and Africa commands

The Army today announced the consolidation of its Europe and Africa commands and the re-designation of the service's Africa/Southern European Task Force.

Recently promoted Gen. Christopher Cavoli will be the head of the new Army Europe and Africa (USAREUR-AF) command, according to a Nov. 20 press release. All units assigned to the service's Africa command will be reassigned to USAREUR-AF.

"This consolidation enhances global and regional readiness in support of the National Defense Strategy," Army Secretary Ryan McCarthy said in a statement. "The new structure will increase command and control effectiveness, flexibility and the capability to conduct large-scale, joint and multidomain operations."

The Army's Africa/Southern European Task Force is being re-designated as the Army Southern European Task Force, Africa (SETAF-AF) and its two-star commanding general will also serve as USAREUR-AF's deputy commanding general for Africa.

SETAF-AF, along with the recently reactivated V Corps, will focus on readiness and interoperability with allies and partners at the operational and tactical levels, "be responsible for all Army operations and assets in Africa and Italy and maintain direct coordination with U.S. Africa Command," according to the press release.