NATO holds mega-exercise with 50,000 soldiers

brussels - The greatest exercise of NATO since the end of the Cold War starts in Norway at the end of this month. Because an extra American aircraft carrier with 6,000 people participates, the total number of participants comes to 50,000, said the American admiral James Foggo at a press conference at the NATO headquarters in Brussels.

Trident Juncture 2018 starts on 25 October and lasts until 7 November. More than 60 ships, 150 aircraft and more than 10,000 vehicles are used. A thousand Dutch soldiers participate as part of the VJTF rapid reaction force. For them, sufficient winter clothing has been made available at the last moment.

A scenario that is practiced is collective defense after an attack on a NATO country. The aim is to show that the military alliance can defend itself and be put off, according to Foggo. According to him no special country is designated as an opponent. Russia has been invited to send observers.

According to the Norwegian Lieutenant General Rune Jacobson, the core area of ​​the exercise is located 1000 kilometers from the Russian border. ' So they do not have to be afraid. ''

More than 10 000 Norwegian troops participate in the exercise, and there is cooperation with civil services, companies and the police. Jacobson spoke of a 'realistic stress test for everyone, in challenging weather conditions'.