NATO begins 2-week nuclear exercise involving 60 aircraft across Europe

NATO commenced its two-week nuclear exercise, Steadfast Noon, on Monday, featuring over 60 aircraft and 2,000 military personnel.

The exercise spans multiple European airspaces, including Belgium, the Netherlands, Denmark, the U.K. and the North Sea.

Focus on nuclear deterrence

The purpose of Steadfast Noon is to test and enhance NATO’s nuclear deterrent capabilities. This year’s drills involve a variety of aircraft, including fighter jets capable of carrying U.S. nuclear warheads. Dutch F-35A aircraft were confirmed as ready to execute nuclear roles, highlighting NATO’s readiness to defend against any potential threat.

“Nuclear deterrence is the cornerstone of Allied security,” NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte said. “Steadfast Noon is an important test of the Alliance’s nuclear deterrent and sends a clear message to any adversary that NATO will protect and defend all Allies.”

Participating nations and scope

The exercise includes personnel from eight airbases and involves training flights over Belgium, the Netherlands, Denmark and the North Sea. Rutte emphasized that nuclear deterrence is a cornerstone of the Alliance’s security.

NATO will remain a nuclear alliance

A statement from NATO reiterated the significance of nuclear deterrence in maintaining peace and preventing coercion. “As long as nuclear weapons exist, NATO will remain a nuclear alliance,” the statement said, reaffirming NATO’s commitment to protecting all member nations.

NATO’s nuclear exercise is a routine and recurring training activity that happens every October. Steadfast Noon involves 2,000 military personnel from eight airbases and a variety of aircraft types, including nuclear-capable jets, bombers, fighter escorts, refueling aircraft and planes capable of reconnaissance and electronic warfare.

This year’s exercise involves flights mainly over host countries Belgium and the Netherlands and in the airspace over Denmark, the United Kingdom and the North Sea. Planning for the exercise began a year ago and 13 allies will send aircraft to take part in the drills.