Nuclear strike training flights will take place over Belgium, the Netherlands, Denmark, the United Kingdom and the North Sea. No live weapons will be used.
NATO will launch its annual nuclear exercise, Steadfast Noon, beginning on 14 October 2024.
This routine training exercise involves over 60 aircraft, including fighter jets capable of carrying U.S. nuclear warheads, although no live weapons are used.
The exercise is designed to maintain the readiness and effectiveness of NATO’s nuclear deterrent, a critical component of the Alliance’s defence strategy.
This year’s drills are focused on airspace over Belgium, the Netherlands, Denmark, the United Kingdom, and the North Sea, with participation from 13 NATO Allies.
The exercise, which runs for two weeks, includes a variety of aircraft such as nuclear-capable jets, bombers, fighter escorts, refuelling aircraft, and planes equipped for reconnaissance and electronic warfare. Around 2,000 military personnel are involved, operating from eight airbases.
The planning for Steadfast Noon began a year ago, reflecting NATO’s commitment to strategic preparedness. This year marks a notable development as Dutch F-35A fighters have been declared ready for nuclear roles, adding to the strength of the Alliance’s capabilities.
NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte highlighted the importance of the exercise, stating, “Nuclear deterrence is the cornerstone of Allied security. Steadfast Noon is an important test of the Alliance’s nuclear deterrent and sends a clear message to any adversary that NATO will protect and defend all Allies.”
The exercise aligns with NATO’s broader goal of ensuring that its nuclear deterrent remains safe, secure, and credible. According to NATO’s recent Washington Summit declaration, the Alliance’s nuclear posture remains essential for preserving peace and deterring aggression as long as nuclear weapons continue to exist.
Is the U.K. reintroducing air-dropped nukes? 🤔
Don’t be silly you need aircraft to drop bombs 🥴 Seriously I don’t think so they got rid of the WE-177 in 1998 without a replacement (there was a brief project for a stand off missile to replace them but…. ). On the face of it may seem odd that we are the only single country that has a full bore Strategic Nuclear Capability that is declared to NATO but no Tactical weapons. Other NATO countries have 2 key access to US weapons and practice for their use, we don’t. To be fair it would cost a fortune to regenerate… Read more »
I’m thinking tactical nuclear is more problematic because who decides it’s limited and not all out nuclear war. The uk second strike sub launched is the gold standard to protect or end it all, once and for all.
I agree, tactical nukes make little sense especially if you can launch large numbers of smart munitions.
I rather spend the money on more warheads for trident and large scale conventional strike with cruise missiles. I just can’t see us ever using a tactical weapon and it would cost billions.