Swedish Air Force will participate for the first time in NATO's annual Steadfast Noon exercises, starting Monday, October 13, aimed at ensuring the reliability, safety, and effectiveness of the Alliance's nuclear deterrence, though live nuclear weapons will not be used. The Swedish Ministry of Defense officially confirmed the involvement of Swedish JAS 39 Gripen jets.
The Swedish Armed Forces are taking part in the exercises in particular to practice conventional support using the JAS 39 Gripen, contributing to nuclear deterrence – the ministry stated. The report emphasizes that nuclear deterrence is primarily intended to ensure the security of allies, and in today's unstable conditions, NATO must maintain a reliable nuclear capability that serves as a safeguard against attacks on the Alliance.
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According to Breaking Defense, preliminary data indicates that this years Steadfast Noon exercises will involve more aircraft than last year: 71 planes from 14 countries, compared to over 60 from 13 countries in 2024.
Finland has also confirmed its participation with its F/A-18 Hornets, which is not a new development as they participated last year as well. Previously, we detailed how these exercises are conducted and what makes them unique.
It should be noted that neither Swedish nor Finnish aircraft are capable of carrying nuclear weapons; however, they will play a role in the so-called SNOWCAT strategy [Support of Nuclear Operations With Conventional Air Tactics], which involves the interaction of certified dual-capable aircraft (capable of carrying nuclear weapons) with conventional forces acting in a support role.
Earlier, Defense Express reported that Sweden allocated $160 million to enable Gripens to operate from roads and $370 million to counter drones.
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