Air forces from across NATO exercise nuclear deterrence capabilities involving dozens of aircraft over north-western Europe starting on Monday. The exercise, which runs until 30 October, is a routine, recurring training activity and it is not linked to any current world events, according to a statement issued by NATO.

Exercise „Steadfast Noon” involves 14 countries and up to 60 aircraft of various types, including fourth and fifth generation fighter jets, as well as surveillance and tanker aircraft. As in previous years, US B-52 long-range bombers will take part; this year, they will fly from Minot Air Base in North Dakota. Training flights will take place over Belgium, which is hosting the exercise, as well as over the North Sea and the United Kingdom. No live weapons are used.