Why in news?
NATO's annual nuclear deterrence exercise Steadfast Noon began on October 13, 2025. 
 
Key details about Steadfast Noon

• Annual routine exercise for nuclear readiness.
• The exercise is hosted by a different NATO country each year.
• 2025 edition is hosted by the Netherlands, with Volkel Air Base as the main operating site.
• No actual nuclear weapons are flown.
• Participating countries include the Netherlands, Belgium, the UK, Denmark, Finland, Poland, the US, Germany, among others.
• Aircraft such as the German Tornado and American and Dutch F-35 jets participate.
• France does not participate as it keeps its nuclear forces separate from NATO's command structure.
• The exercise involves training flights over host countries and surrounding areas such as the North Sea.

The goal is to ensure that NATO's nuclear deterrent remains credible, safe, secure, and effective, sending a clear message to potential adversaries that NATO can protect and defend all its members.​​

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