NATO to conduct the most large-scale military exercises since times of the Cold War

More than 300 000 soldiers from more than 30 countries will participate in military exercises held in three countries. More than 50 war vessels, 120 planes and 50 helicopters will be involved.

In October-November over 30 thousand soldiers from more than 30 countries will take part in the largest military exercises (Trident Juncture) since the end of 1980s , They will be held in the territories of Spain, Portugal and Italy. A high NATO official informed PAP agency, Ukrinform reports.

It will be the most large-scale military exercises since times of the Cold War", the source says.

More than 30 thousand soldiers of 230 units from Alliance countries – four full-fledged combat brigades – will participate in NATO Response Force military exercises. More than 50 war vessels, inter alia, 15 underwater vessels, 120 planes, and 50 helicopters will be involved.

Trident Juncture starts with command post exercises that will be turned into exercises on training areas, the places where response forces to be tested.

NATO Response Force created in 2003 consists of naval, ground and air components and forces. In view of the threat posed by Russia, during the last Summit NATO decided to reform the component of the Alliance forces. After the reform it will consist of command, Very High readiness Joint Task Forces (VJTF), IFFG, as well as forces which will be involved in case of insufficient operation of two first components.