[In brief] Two full-scale NATO exercises in the south-east and east of Europe

(B2) Two military exercises will take place. Objective: improve the operational capabilities of the armed forces at national and allied levels

The first named 'Defend Europe 21' begins in March with the redeployment of American forces and assets by sea in eight European countries and will last until mid-June 2021. On the menu, a series of related exercises, divided into time, place and phases and will take place mainly in the Black Sea region, the Balkans and Estonia. Under the command of United States Land Forces Europe (EUCOM), it will involve more than 30 troops from 000 NATO member states and partner countries.

The second named '21 Steadfast Defender' will take place from mid-May to early June 2021 under the direction of Headquarters Supreme Allied Command Europe (SHAPE). Objective: “to demonstrate NATO’s ability to respond rapidly to the full range of threats to the security and stability of the Alliance in times of peace, crisis or conflict”.

(JSB)