NATO Set to Launch Largest Military Exercise Since Cold War

NATO is gearing up for its largest joint command exercise since the Cold War, with over 40,000 troops simulating a response to potential Russian aggression. The exercise, called Steadfast Defender, marks NATO’s shift from crisis response to war readiness following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. Set to begin next spring, it will include air combat missions, ships, and troops, using real-world data for realism. Sweden will also participate, making it a total of 32 nations. The exercise comes amid concerns over Russia’s actions on the Belarusian border, and NATO’s move toward heavier military capabilities.