NATO Countries Plan Largest-Ever Air Drill in Europe
NATO member-states are planning to launch their largest-ever air drill to test themselves in case of a conflict in Europe.
Air Defender 23 Exercise
Around 250 military aircraft from 25 nations, including the U.S., Germany and Türkiye, will take part in the “Air Defender 23” exercise, authorities announced on Friday.
Defensive Maneuvers in European Air Space
The fighter jets will conduct defensive maneuvers in German and European air space from June 12 to 23.
Turkish Participation
Turkish fighter pilot Col. Ersin Özmen told Anadolu Agency (AA) that the Turkish Air Forces Command will participate in the exercise with three F-16 jets and over 50 military personnel.
Objective of the Exercise
“The objective of Air Defender 23 is to improve interoperability and cooperation among the forces of NATO allies,” he said at an event at the Schleswig-Jagel Air Base in Germany.
Preparations Completed
German Air Force chief Lt. Gen. Ingo Gerhartz told reporters that all preparations have been completed.
Deployment of NATO Allies and Partner Nations
During the exercise, aircraft from NATO allies and partner nations will be deployed at various air bases across Germany.
U.S. Participation
The U.S. has sent over 100 aircraft and 2,000 military personnel to Germany for the exercise.
