(MENAFN) NATO will kick off its annual nuclear exercise, Steadfast Noon, on Monday, as the alliance seeks to maintain its nuclear deterrence credibility amidst growing tensions with Russia. The two-week drill, which will involve approximately 70 aircraft and 2,000 personnel from 13 NATO member states, will take place at airbases in the Netherlands, Belgium, the UK, and Denmark, and will be conducted in the North Sea region.

NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte reassured the public in a video that the exercise is a "regular" event, emphasizing that it is not specifically linked to recent actions by Moscow. "We need to do this because it helps us to ensure that our nuclear deterrent remains credible, safe, secure, and effective," Rutte said. "It also sends a clear message to any potential adversary that we can protect and defend all allies against any threat."

The exercise, which will not involve live nuclear weapons, comes amid increased concerns over airspace incursions by Russian aircraft and the rising frequency of drone sightings near NATO military sites, including in Denmark. US Colonel Daniel Bunch, NATO's chief of nuclear operations, acknowledged that while drones are "not a new threat," the more frequent incursions have been noted and are being closely monitored.

This year’s exercise takes place against the backdrop of Russia’s ongoing war in Ukraine, during which the Kremlin has escalated its nuclear rhetoric. NATO's Director of Nuclear Policy, Jim Stokes, stated that while Russia's nuclear posture has not changed, the alliance continues to closely monitor Moscow's use of dual-capable missiles in the conflict and the frequent nuclear-related statements from Russian officials.

The Steadfast Noon exercise underscores NATO's commitment to ensuring the credibility and security of its nuclear deterrent in an increasingly unstable security environment.

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