NATO will proceed with its annual nuclear deterrence exercise this week despite recent Russian warnings that it could use nuclear weapons if its territory, including Kaliningrad, comes under threat.
The 10-day, now declassified Steadfast Noon exercise is scheduled to begin Oct. 13 and will be hosted by Italy, with aircraft from 17 North Atlantic Treaty Organization countries expected to participate. The drill is designed to test the alliance’s nuclear readiness and procedures and does not involve live nuclear weapons or ammunition, according to The Washington Post.
NATO officials described the exercise as a longstanding, routine activity that is not directed at Russia or linked to current events. NATO’s Head of Nuclear Policy Nassima Barrows said the alliance has not observed changes in Russia’s nuclear posture that would cause concern, despite increased nuclear rhetoric.
Russia warned NATO earlier this month against attempting to isolate Kaliningrad, the Russian exclave between Poland and Lithuania that hosts military assets including nuclear-capable Iskander missiles. Russian officials said Moscow would be prepared to use its full arsenal, including nuclear weapons, to defend the territory.
