NATO kicks off major nuclear drills amid rising tensions with Russia
NATO has commenced the Steadfast Noon exercises, simulating the use of nuclear weapons. The Alliance is showcasing its capabilities in response to Putin's threats by deploying over 60 various types of aircraft across Europe.
10:34 AM EDT, October 14, 2024
NATO's Steadfast Noon exercises began on Monday, October 14, and will continue for the next two weeks. Over 60 aircraft are participating, all performing maneuvers over Western Europe, where they will engage in nuclear weapons training simulations. It's important to note that none of the aircraft are armed; fighters and other aircraft will simulate carrying this weaponry.
NATO demonstrates resolve in light of Russian threats
"Nuclear deterrence is the cornerstone of Allied security," said NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte. NATO's official website states that Steadfast Noon is a crucial test of the Alliance's nuclear deterrence and sends a clear message to any adversary that NATO is committed to protecting and defending all Allies.
According to a NATO statement, the exercises are routine and part of a cyclical training activity. As part of Steadfast Noon, over 2,000 soldiers from eight air bases will conduct exercises with various types of aircraft, including bombers, fighters, tankers, reconnaissance, and electronic warfare machines.
The plan for this year's exercises primarily involves flights over Belgium, the Netherlands, Denmark, the United Kingdom, and the North Sea. The first F-35A fighters from the Netherlands, expected to be ready for nuclear roles in 2024, will participate in the ongoing maneuvers.
Key NATO aircraft in operation
The F-35A is a featured single-seat fighter, approximately 52 feet long, 14 feet high, and with a wingspan of about 35 feet. It incorporates stealth technology, making it difficult for enemies to detect. The F-35A can carry various weapons, including AIM-120C-5 and AIM-9X Sidewinder air-to-air missiles, AGM-154C JSOW air-to-ground missiles, and Paveway or JDAM guided bombs. A significant advantage of the F-35A is its versatile range of armament.
However, these fighters are not the only key aircraft in NATO's arsenal. Other notable designs include the Boeing E-3, an American early warning and airspace surveillance system based on the Boeing 707. Unlike the original, it features a large radar station mounted on the fuselage, enabling air reconnaissance within a radius of over 250 miles. The radar system has a viewing range exceeding 120,000 square miles.
NATO also maintains air superiority with Eurofighter Typhoon fighters, which is structurally similar to the F-35s. These aircraft can reach speeds up to Mach 2 (about 1,367 mph) and operate at altitudes exceeding 60,000 feet, allowing them to compete with Russian fighters effectively. These fighters are equipped with a Mauser BK-27 cannon with a 27 mm caliber, anti-ship missiles like the AGM-84, anti-radar missiles AGM-88 HARM, and AIM-9 Sidewinder anti-aircraft missiles.
