Why in news?
NATO launched its annual nuclear‑deterrence exercise Steadfast Noon on 13 October 2025. Hosted by the Netherlands at Volkel Air Base, the exercise mobilises about 71 aircraft from 14 allied nations and will run for two weeks. The drill does not involve live nuclear weapons but tests the procedures and coordination needed to maintain a credible nuclear deterrent.
Background
Steadfast Noon is a routine training exercise held every October to ensure that NATO’s nuclear forces remain safe, secure and effective. It involves aircraft capable of carrying nuclear bombs, refuelling tankers, surveillance planes and command‑and‑control platforms. The exercise occurs amid geopolitical tensions following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, but NATO stresses that it is not directed at any particular country and is unrelated to current events.
Key details
- Participating assets: Around 71 aircraft take part, including fighter jets certified for the nuclear mission, electronic‑warfare planes, intelligence and surveillance aircraft and aerial refuelling tankers. The United States is deploying F‑35 fighter jets in the dual‑capable role for the first time, replacing the older F‑15E Strike Eagle. Germany, Poland, Finland and other allies are contributing Tornados, F‑16s and F‑18s.
- Locations: The main hub is Volkel Air Base in the Netherlands. Additional operations occur from Kleine Brogel in Belgium, RAF Lakenheath in Britain and Skrydstrup in Denmark, with training flights over the North Sea region.
- Objectives: Pilots and crews rehearse the deployment of nuclear‑capable aircraft, practice defending nuclear assets on the ground and test command‑and‑control procedures. The exercise aims to ensure that the alliance’s deterrent remains credible, safe and secure.
- Significance: NATO leaders emphasise that Steadfast Noon sends a clear message of unity and deterrence. By training together, allies demonstrate their readiness to defend each other and uphold the nuclear sharing arrangements underpinning the alliance. The exercise also promotes transparency to reassure citizens that the alliance handles its nuclear responsibilities responsibly.
Source: Reuters