The largest military exercise has begun

In a statement released by NATO, it was noted that the US dock landing ship USS Gunston Hall departed from Norfolk, Virginia, and will reach the other side of the Atlantic following a series of operations.

The statement also reported that the HMCS Charlottetown frigate is scheduled to depart from Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada, for Europe later this month as part of the exercise, adding that the Alliance will demonstrate its ability to reinforce the Euro-Atlantic region by moving forces from North America across the Atlantic.

Supreme Allied Commander Europe (SACEUR) General Christopher Cavoli stated, "Steadfast Defender 2024 will be a clear demonstration of our unity, our strength, and our determination to continue to stand together to protect each other, our values, and the rules-based international order."

It was announced that approximately 90,000 troops from 31 NATO member countries and candidate country Sweden will participate in the exercise, which is expected to last until the end of May.

NATO's largest exercise since the Cold War is expected to take place in Germany, Poland, and the Baltic states, and will include scenarios involving a potential conflict with Russia.

NATO's last major exercise during the Cold War was "REFORGER," which was held in 1988 with 125,000 participants.

News Source: 12punto