Overview

• NATO military exercise Air Defender 23 has begun in Germany with 250 aircraft and 10,000 personnel.
• The exercise aims to demonstrate NATO's ability to defend its territory and deter Russia.
• Although planned for years, the exercise comes as fighting escalates in Ukraine.
• The massive show of force is meant to signal to Putin that NATO can counter Russia if needed.
• The exercise will test coordination between NATO members and incorporate drones and advanced technology.