NATO is set to begin its annual nuclear deterrence exercise called Steadfast Noon, on Monday, marking one of the largest participation levels in recent years.
The exercise will primarily focus on the North Sea region, with the Netherlands Volkel Air Base serving as the main hub. Flight operations are scheduled to start Tuesday, following initial personnel briefings on Monday.
This year, the US will participate with four F-35 jets in the dual-capable aircraft role for the first time, previously carried out by F-15E Strike Eagles.
NATO will also deploy at least 71 aircraft from 14 countries, including Germany’s Panavia Tornado jets & jamming aircraft, Poland’s F-16s, Finland’s F-18s, Sweden’s Gripen jets & Dutch F-35s.
Support aircraft, tankers & electronic warfare assets will provide vital operational capabilities. Around 2,000 personnel will be directly involved, maintaining a scale similar to previous exercises.
NATO officials emphasised that the exercise is routine & defensive in nature. It’s a yearly training to ensure our nuclear deterrent remains credible, safe, secure & effective, NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte said.
While the exercise does not involve live nuclear weapons, it will include certified pilots and aircraft, as well as scenarios for protecting nuclear assets on the ground.
NATO stressed that the exercise is not targeted at any specific country but aims to demonstrate preparedness & responsible nuclear management.
France will not participate, maintaining its nuclear forces separate from NATO command structures. Discussions between France & the UK on closer nuclear cooperation are ongoing, aimed at enhancing overall European security.
Steadfast Noon underscores NATO’s commitment to nuclear deterrence amid growing global tensions and modernisation of nuclear capabilities by other powers.
