Germany will host the largest air force deployment exercise in NATO history, which aims to demonstrate strength to allies and potential adversaries such as Russia, the Associated Press reports. The Air Defender 23 exercise will bring together 10,000 participants and 250 aircraft from 25 countries to counter a simulated attack against a NATO member state. The US will send 2,000 Air National Guard personnel and about 100 aircraft to participate in the training maneuvers, which will take place from June 12 to 23.
US Ambassador to Germany Amy Gutman said the exercise would be impressive and demonstrate the agility and speed of allied NATO forces. She expressed confidence that it would attract the attention of world leaders, including Russian President Vladimir Putin.
Although the exercise was planned several years ago, rising tensions since Russia’s intervention in Ukraine in February 2022 have led to serious preparations by NATO for possible attacks in the region. Sweden, which intends to join NATO, and Japan are also taking part in the exercise.
The main focus is on defensive actions, with no flights to the Russian strategic exclave of Kaliningrad.
Michael A. Law, director of the US Air National Guard, said the exercise aims to strengthen force readiness and improve coordination between NATO and its allies and partners. For young American pilots who have often served in the Middle East, the exercise is an opportunity to establish relationships with allies in Europe and prepare for different military scenarios.
Organizers warned that the exercise would lead to temporary disruptions to civilian flights in Europe.
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Assessment 2.8 from 20 voice.
2023-06-07 12:37:00
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