NATO holds large-scale nuclear exercise in Northern Europe, declares readiness to respond to any threat

NATO began a large-scale nuclear exercise called Steadfast Noon on October 14, involving 2,000 troops from 13 alliance countries and 60 military aircraft in Northern Europe.

The Steadfast Noon nuclear exercise involves 2,000 troops from 13 alliance countries and 60 military aircraft in northern Europe. (Source: Azer News)

Earlier, NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte said the exercise would take place mainly in the UK, the North Sea region, Belgium and the Netherlands; demonstrating to “all enemies” that NATO is ready to respond to any threat.

The exercise has been planned and prepared for more than a year, and there are no plans to use combat weapons during the exercise, the alliance said in a statement.

NATO's nuclear exercise is a routine training exercise that takes place every October.

Steadfast Noon will last for two weeks, involving eight air bases. In particular, many types of aircraft capable of carrying nuclear weapons, bombers, escort fighters and refueling aircraft, reconnaissance aircraft and electronic warfare forces will also participate in the exercise.

According to NATO's media department, the military alliance is constantly taking steps "to ensure the reliability and effectiveness of its nuclear deterrent."

In particular, in 2024, the new Dutch F35A fighter jet is recognized as suitable for use in nuclear deterrence missions.

At the Summit held in Washington from July 9-11, NATO also declared that "the fundamental purpose of nuclear capabilities is to preserve peace, prevent coercion and deter aggression".

“As long as there are nuclear weapons, NATO will remain a nuclear alliance,” the statement stressed.

Source: https://baoquocte.vn/nato-tap-tran-hat-nhan-quy-mo-lon-o-bac-au-tuyen-bo-san-sang-dap-tra-bat-ky-moi-de-doa-nao-290021.html