NATO nuke test

Jets over UK as Putin tensions rise

- KAREN ROCKETT

AIR forces from 14 countries will take part in a NATO nuclear exercise over the UK this week as tensions with Russia and the West intensify. 

The “highly sensitive” event, dubbed Steadfast Noon, tests the ability of allies to drop atomic bombs from warplanes.

US B52 bombers and fighter jets from Belgium and Germany – capable of carrying B61 bombs – will fly over the UK, the North Sea and Belgium, NATO said.

The annual training, starting tomorrow, is going ahead despite rising fears President Vladimir Putin might consider a real nuclear strike in Ukraine.