Seventeen NATO member countries are conducting their annual exercise titled "Steady Noon" in Italy, focusing on reviewing and strengthening their nuclear readiness. This maneuver, planned for nearly 18 months, emphasizes nuclear deterrence and cooperation among member countries.
Details of the Exercise and Its Objectives
NATO has stated that this exercise is not officially directed against any specific country and aims to demonstrate NATO's defensive capabilities and readiness to protect its territory. NATO's central command explained that last year, about 2,000 military personnel and over 70 aircraft participated in this exercise. This includes German fighter jets capable of carrying U.S. nuclear bombs stationed in Europe.
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The Role of Nuclear Weapons and the Scale of the Exercise
Nasima Barouz, NATO's head of nuclear policy, explained that despite the emphasis on military readiness, no real nuclear weapons will be used in this exercise. Colonel David Bull, NATO's nuclear operations officer, also emphasized the main goal of this exercise, describing it as maintaining a safe and credible nuclear deterrent.
According to provided information, these maneuvers are typically held in October and include exercises for the safe transfer of weapons from underground storage to aircraft and their installation on fighter jets. Military experts have stated that this exercise will use training bombs without nuclear warheads.
Threat Analysis and Focus on Russia
Although NATO has stated that this exercise is not related to current global events, the alliance's threat analysis has particularly focused on Russia. U.S. B61 nuclear weapons stationed in Europe can be delivered to partner countries in the event of a crisis. These weapons are specifically stored in areas such as northern Italy, Belgium, the Netherlands, and Büchel in Rhineland-Palatinate.
The "Steady Noon" exercise is a demonstration of the cooperation and military capabilities of NATO member countries, which remain committed to maintaining security and nuclear deterrence against global threats. These maneuvers could influence political and military impacts on a global scale, particularly NATO's relations with countries like Russia.
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