NATO to Launch Annual Nuclear Drill Amid Rising Tensions with Russia
NATO is set to commence its annual nuclear exercise, “Steadfast Noon,” on Monday, according to Secretary General Mark Rutte. The drills will involve around 60 aircraft from 13 nations, including F-35A fighter jets and B-52 bombers, and will be hosted by Belgium and the Netherlands. The exercise comes against the backdrop of increasing nuclear threats from Russian President Vladimir Putin.
Rutte emphasized the importance of testing NATO’s defense capabilities in an unpredictable world, stating, “In an uncertain world, it is vital that we test our defense and strengthen it so our adversaries know that NATO is ready to respond to any threat.” He made these remarks after meetings in London with Prime Minister Keir Starmer and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.
The two-week-long exercise will primarily focus on the United Kingdom, the North Sea, Belgium, and the Netherlands. While no live weapons will be used, the 2,000 military personnel involved will simulate missions where warplanes carry U.S. nuclear warheads.
Despite the growing rhetoric from Russia, NATO officials clarified that Steadfast Noon is not a reaction to recent statements from Moscow, stressing that the drill has been held annually for over a decade. Angus Lapsley, NATO’s assistant secretary general for defense policy and planning, noted, “We don’t adjust constantly according to whatever is being said on any given day.” He emphasized the importance of exercises like Steadfast Noon in showcasing NATO’s nuclear capabilities as part of its overall deterrence strategy, particularly toward Russia.
The exercise underscores NATO’s commitment to maintaining credible and assured nuclear deterrence amidst escalating global tensions.
