NATO is practicing the defense of Scandinavian countries in new exercises, – The Times

NATO begins an exercise where they will practice the defense of the Scandinavian countries/Collage 24 Channel

NATO has begun large-scale exercises in its newly expanded territory in northern Europe. A new member of the Alliance, Finland, also took part in these exercises.

Journalists from The Times noted that during these exercises, NATO countries will practice the defense of the Scandinavian countries. Alliance officers noted that this is a very important exercise for the bloc's defense capability.

NATO began large-scale exercises in Scandinavia

The authors of the material noted that more than 20 thousand soldiers from 13 countries are participating in the large-scale military exercises Nordic Response 2024, which are taking place in the northern regions of Finland, Norway and Sweden.

The two-week Norwegian-led exercise involving 4,000 Finnish soldiers is being closely watched by various NATO members, including Britain, France, Germany and the United States. Sweden is expected to join NATO this month as the alliance's 32nd member after Hungary dropped its objections.

The exercises cover a wide range of military capabilities, journalists said. More than 50 ships are participating, including submarines and aircraft carriers, as well as more than 100 fighter aircraft and other aircraft.

The Norwegian military stressed that the main focus of the exercise is defense of the Northern region. This increased military activity comes amid concern among Western officials about potential Russian aggression, especially in light of a full-scale war in Ukraine.

Brigadier General Tron Strand of the Royal Norwegian Air Force noted that NATO must be able to fight back and stop anyone who tries to “challenge our borders, values ​​and democracy.” He noted that given the current security situation in Europe, these exercises are extremely relevant and important as never before.