Launch of NATO's Annual "Steadfast Noon" Nuclear Deterrence Exercises

SadaNews - The annual "Steadfast Noon" nuclear deterrence exercises of NATO began this morning, Monday, in the Netherlands, with the participation of 71 aircraft from 14 member countries of the alliance.

The exercises aim to train aircraft and personnel on nuclear deterrence scenarios, without the use of actual nuclear weapons.

NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte confirmed that the exercises send a clear message to any potential adversary that the alliance will protect all its members and defend them against all threats, adding that the drills help ensure the reliability and effectiveness of nuclear deterrence.

The participation included bases in Kleine Brogel in Belgium, Lakenheath in the UK, and Skrydstrup in Denmark, while the exercises will conclude on October 24.

Germany sent three Tornado bombers equipped to carry U.S. nuclear bombs and four Eurofighter jets, while Sweden participated with JAS-39 Gripen aircraft and Finland with F/A-18 Hornet planes. The United States will also take part in the exercise.

The exercises come amid repeated Russian warnings of NATO’s intensified military activity along its western borders, with Moscow asserting that it does not pose a threat to anyone but will not ignore any actions that may affect its interests, in the context of what the alliance describes as "deterring Russian aggression."