NATO will begin its annual Steadfast Noon nuclear preparedness exercise next week, according to Secretary General Mark Rutte.
Rutte emphasised the importance of preparedness in an increasingly volatile global environment on Thursday.
In an uncertain world, it is vital that we test our defence and strengthen our capabilities so that our adversaries know NATO is ready and able to respond to any threat.
The drills will take place on Monday amid heightened nuclear rhetoric in case the escalating war in Ukraine leads to unconsidered action. The Steadfast Noon will deploy about 60 aircraft, including F-35A fighter jets and B-52 bombers, from 13 NATO nations.
About 2,000 troops would participate in simulated missions involving US nuclear warheads, although no live weapons would be used, NATO officials confirmed. The two-week exercise, hosted by Belgium and the Netherlands, will take place in the “North Sea area.”
