The exercise will involve 17 Allied nations and is designed to test military readiness and procedures supporting NATO’s nuclear deterrence and defence capabilities.
NATO will begin its annual nuclear deterrence exercise, Steadfast Noon, on Tuesday, 13 October 2026, with this year’s activities taking place in Italy and involving 17 Allied nations.
The exercise is a long-planned, routine training activity aimed at maintaining military readiness and testing procedures that support the Alliance’s deterrence and defence posture.
NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte emphasised the defensive purpose of the exercise, saying it would help preserve peace, prevent coercion and deter aggression.
“NATO is a defensive Alliance. This exercise helps us ensure a safe, secure, effective, and credible capability to preserve peace, prevent coercion and deter aggression. It also sends a clear message of unity and resolve,” Rutte said.
The overall scale of this year’s exercise is consistent with previous editions. No live nuclear weapons will be used during Steadfast Noon.
NATO stressed that the exercise is not linked to current international developments and is not directed against any country.
The annual exercise forms part of the Alliance’s efforts to maintain readiness and ensure that procedures supporting its nuclear deterrence mission remain effective and credible.
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