The "Nordic Response" military mission of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) comes to life. Started last March 4, it will end on March 15, 2024, affecting the maritime areas and airspace of Norway, Sweden and Finland. The new President of Finland, Alexander Stubb, will inspect the exercise together with Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Store today, Thursday 7 March, in his first official trip. 

Italy will have a leading role thanks to Rear Admiral Valentino Rinaldi, as commander of the international amphibious force. Rome's presence is also marked by the participation of three MH-101 amphibious helicopters (military version of the AW-101), the "Garibaldi" cruiser, the "San Giorgio" ship and the "San Marco" Marine Brigade.

The exercise involves military forces from 13 member countries of the Atlantic Alliance and Sweden, states in the process of joining NATO, whose official entry could take place, according to rumours, on Monday 11 March, with an official ceremony which will be held at the NATO headquarters in Brussels.

The training campaign aims to increase the Nordic countries' preparedness and ability to conduct large-scale joint operations in extreme climate conditions. "Nordic Response" 2024 is an exercise that is part of the framework of activities foreseen by the "Steadfast Defender" training campaign (from 24 January to 31 May 2024).