NATO Initiates "Steadfast Noon" Military Exercises in Italy

The North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) has begun its annual nuclear exercise, Steadfast Noon, on Italian soil. This is reported by One.uz.

Starting on Monday and lasting one week, these maneuvers involve dual-capable aircraft—suitable for both conventional and nuclear weapons delivery—conducting sorties. This year’s exercise set a record in scale, with 17 allied nations participating (compared to 13 in 2024 and 14 in 2025).

Participants and their deployment
Full Northern European participation: NATO’s newest members, Finland and Sweden, confirmed their involvement. Sweden also deployed its renowned JAS 39 Gripen fighter jets, in addition to personnel.

European air contribution: Romania sent F-16 fighters to Italy, Germany allocated three Tornado squadrons, and both Turkey and the United States participated with full aircrews and technical specialists. France’s response and exercise specifics
France’s stance: Paris opted out of participation, as it is not part of NATO’s nuclear planning group.

According to Italy’s Sole 24 Ore and official alliance sources: Location: The maneuvers are taking place near the Aviano and Ghedi air bases in northern Italy, as well as over broad airspace within NATO’s area of responsibility (in 2023, similar exercises saw flights over Italy, Croatia, and the Adriatic Sea). No live weapons used: The Italian Armed Forces clarified that no actual nuclear weapons are employed during the exercise.

Pre-planned activity: NATO emphasized that these flights were scheduled in advance, are not linked to current political events, and are not directed against any specific country.

Moscow’s reaction and concerns
NATO’s move was anticipated with objection by Russia.

Escalation signal: Russia’s embassy in Belgium stated that the maneuvers, despite alliance claims of “peaceful intent,” do not contribute to reducing military tensions in Europe.

Nuclear mission concerns: Moscow has repeatedly expressed alarm over the deployment of U.S. tactical nuclear weapons in Europe and NATO’s joint nuclear operations, arguing they undermine regional stability.

For context: Last year’s exercises in the Netherlands, Belgium, the United Kingdom, and Denmark involved nearly 70 military aircraft and over 2,000 service personnel.