After a two-day meeting of defense leaders, NATO officials announced on Thursday that the organization will commence its largest European exercises since the 1988 "Campaign Reforger."
The purpose of this action will be to test its ability to address further Russian aggression in the region.
Designated “Steadfast Defender 24,” the 90,000-participant effort will include all 31 member-nations and Sweden, which is expected to join the alliance this year.
The assemblage of forces is reported to include air, naval, and ground units.
Speaking to reporters on Thursday, U.S. General Christopher Cavoli, described the purpose of the mission as allowing NATO to, “Demonstrate its ability to reinforce the Euro-Atlantic area via trans-Atlantic movement of forces from North America. This reinforcement will occur during a simulated emerging conflict scenario against a near-peer adversary.”
Allied military personnel are expected to begin the training maneuvers next week and conclude their activity in May.
The areas of operation will be primarily focused on Germany, the Baltic States, and Poland.
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