NATO its long-planned annual nuclear exercises in northwestern Europe as tensions over the war in Ukraine and President Vladimir Putin`s threat to use any means to defend Russian territory.
Fourteen of NATO`s 30 member countries were scheduled to participate, which the military alliance said the exercises will involve about 60 aircraft, including fighter jets, observation aircraft, and refueling aircraft.
At least 1,000 kilometers (625 miles) from Russia`s borders will be where the majority of the war games are held.
In addition, American long-range B-52 bombers will participate in the exercises, known as Steadfast Noon, which will last through October 30. Media access is not permitted by NATO.
The North Sea, the United Kingdom, and Belgium, which is hosting Steadfast Noon this year, will all be the subject of training flights, according to NATO.
NATO is expecting Moscow to exercise its nuclear forces sometime this month.
