NATO chief Rutte announces major nuclear drills in Europe
NATO will begin large-scale nuclear exercises involving thousands of troops and dozens of warplanes on Oct. 14, NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte announced in London, according to the Associated Press.
The drills, named Steadfast Noon, will involve over 50 aircraft and 2,000 military personnel.
Rutte emphasized the importance of strengthening defense in an "uncertain world."
"It is vital that we test our defense and that we strengthen our defense so that our adversaries know that NATO is ready and is able to respond to any threat," he said.
The exercises will not involve the use of live ammunition, but the 2,000 soldiers participating will simulate missions in which military aircraft carry American nuclear warheads, Rutte noted.
The drills will involve around 60 aircraft from 13 countries, including F-35A fighter jets and B-52 bombers.
The main maneuvers will take place over the United Kingdom, the North Sea, Belgium, and the Netherlands.
The exercises are expected to last about two weeks.
NATO plans to increase its total troop numbers by approximately 250,000 soldiers due to the potential Russian threat, according to earlier media reports.
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