NATO begins annual nuclear exercise in Italy

NATO began its annual nuclear war exercise with aircraft and military personnel from more than a dozen allied nations. A German Tornado fighter jet takes off during NATO Tiger Meet, a recurring air force exercise. NATO’s annual Steadfast Noon nuclear exercise runs Oct. 13-23 in Italy, with 17 nations participating. The alliance says the routine exercise is not directed against any country and is unrelated to current events. (Fanny Chesiere/NATO) NATO began its annual nuclear war exercise Tuesday, with aircraft and military personnel from more than a dozen allied nations taking part in training to test the alliance’s deterrence and readiness. Although NATO describes the drills as routine and not linked to current events, the maneuvers come at a time of high tension with Russia, which has repeatedly engaged in nuclear saber rattling during its war against Ukraine.

The exercise also comes against the backdrop of a recent report commissioned by U.S. European Command saying the Kremlin is likely to prioritize more sophisticated offensive nuclear capabilities rather than substantially expand its arsenal. “This exercise helps us ensure a safe, secure, effective and credible capability to preserve peace, prevent coercion and deter aggression,” Secretary-General Mark Rutte said in a statement announcing the exercise. “It also sends a clear message of unity and resolve.” Involving 17 nations, Steadfast Noon typically incorporates dozens