NATO will begin its annual nuclear deterrence exercise, Steadfast Noon, in Italy on Oct. 13, with 17 nations taking part, the alliance announced Thursday.
– The exercise is a long-planned, routine training activity aimed at maintaining readiness and testing procedures that support NATO’s deterrence and defense, according to a statement.
– “NATO is a defensive Alliance. This exercise helps us ensure a safe, secure, effective, and credible capability to preserve peace, prevent coercion and deter aggression. It also sends a clear message of unity and resolve,” NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte said.
– The alliance said the scale of this year’s exercise would be in line with previous editions.
– No live weapons will be used during Steadfast Noon, NATO said, adding that the exercise is not linked to current world events and is not directed against any country.