NATO stages nuclear readiness drills amid Russia tensions
NATO begins the Steadfast Noon exercises, which include the simulation of using nuclear weapons. The Alliance showcases its strength in response to Putin's threats by deploying over 60 different types of aircraft across Europe.
On Monday, 14th October, NATO's Steadfast Noon exercises commence and will continue for the next two weeks. Over 60 aircraft will take part in the manoeuvres, all appearing over Western Europe, where they will be trained in the use of nuclear weapons. It's important to note that none of the aircraft will be armed—fighters and other planes will simulate carrying this type of ammunition.
NATO flexes muscles before Russia
“Nuclear deterrence is the cornerstone of Allied security,” said NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte. On NATO's official website, it is also stated that Steadfast Noon is a vital test of the Alliance's nuclear deterrence capabilities and a clear signal to any adversary that NATO intends to protect and defend all Allies.
NATO explains in a statement that the exercises are routinely held and form a regular training activity. As part of Steadfast Noon, over 2,000 soldiers from eight air bases will conduct exercises using various types of aircraft: bombers, fighters, tankers, reconnaissance, and electronic warfare planes.
The plan outlines that this year's exercises will primarily include flights over Belgium, the Netherlands, Denmark, the United Kingdom, and the North Sea. The first F-35A fighters from the Netherlands, deemed ready for nuclear roles in 2024, will participate in the ongoing manoeuvres.
Key NATO aircraft in the sky
The F-35A is a single-seat fighter, nearly 16 metres long, about 4 metres high, and with a wingspan of roughly 11 metres. It features stealth technology, making it difficult for the enemy to detect. The F-35A can carry a variety of armaments, 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. An important advantage of the F-35A is its range of weaponry.
However, these fighters are not the only ones considered among the most valuable aircraft in NATO's arsenal. Other noteworthy models include the Boeing E-3, the American early warning and airspace surveillance system based on the Boeing 707. Compared to the original, it features a large radar station mounted on the fuselage, enabling air reconnaissance within a radius of over 400 kilometres. The radar of this system has a viewing range exceeding 310,000 square kilometres.
NATO also ensures air dominance with the Eurofighter Typhoon fighters, which are structurally similar to the F-35. These planes can reach speeds of up to Mach 2 (about 2,200 km/h) and operate at altitudes exceeding 18,000 metres, allowing them to effectively compete with the fighters used by Russia. The equipment of these fighters includes a Mauser BK-27 cannon of 27 mm calibre, anti-ship missiles like the AGM-84, anti-radar missiles AGM-88 HARM, and anti-aircraft AIM-9 Sidewinder missiles.
