NATO to hold annual 'Steadfast Noon' nuclear deterrence exercise in Italy

NATO will conduct its annual nuclear deterrence exercise, "Steadfast Noon," in Italy starting October 13, 2026, involving 17 nations. The exercise is described as a routine training activity to maintain readiness and test deterrence procedures, and is not linked to current world events or directed against any country, despite recent heightened nuclear rhetoric from Russia. No live weapons will be used.