The timing of the Steadfast Noon exercise coincides with the meeting of the NATO ministers of defense later this week, although it is unclear if the timing is coincidental. The Steadfast Noon exercise appears to involve operations out of both Ghedi AB and Aviano AB and Belgian F-16s and possibly Czech Gripen are operating out of Aviano AB. Of the 14 nations involved, Dutch F-16s and German Tornadoes are operating out of Ghedi AB alongside Italian Tornados, while U.S. The second nuclear base in Italy – Ghedi near Brescia – that might be part of Italy’s hosting of this year’s Steadfast Noon exercise, is currently undergoing several important nuclear weapons related modernizations that are intended to serve the NATO nuclear strike mission for years. Two of these bases – Aviano in northeast Italy and Incirlik in southern Turkey, were upgraded over the past five years. This includes adding additional security perimeters to strengthen protection of the nuclear weapons stored at the bases. The nuclear bases in southern Europe have received several upgrades during the past few years. This exercise helps to ensure that NATO’s nuclear deterrent remains safe, secure and effective.” The week-long exercise is taking place over Southern Europe and involves aircraft and personnel from 14 NATO countries.Īccording to the NATO statement, “Steadfast Noon involves training flights with dual-capable fighter jets, as well as conventional jets, backed by surveillance and refuelling aircraft. NATO announced Monday that it had started its annual nuclear exercise code-named Steadfast Noon. USAF personnel loading a B61 nuclear bomb trainer on an F-16 fighter-bomber at Aviano Air Base