Military – US and Germany plan major maneuvers with allies – Political

WASHINGTON (AP) — The United States, Germany and more than two dozen countries are planning a large-scale maneuver in nearly two months. “Parts of the exercise will be extended to ten different European countries,” a US Department of Defense spokesman announced on Wednesday (local time).

Apart from nearly 9,000 American soldiers, 17,000 soldiers from 26 mainly European countries will participate in the “Defender 2023” exercise. Training starts on 22nd April.

Among other things, the maneuver was intended to demonstrate the ability to rapidly move combat-ready troops and equipment “to provide security to allies and deter threats to peace in Europe,” the spokesman said. The equipment arrived in Spain this week and is now being transferred to other locations. About 7,000 pieces of equipment were shipped to Europe.

In June, the Bundeswehr, along with other NATO countries and allies, is also planning an air force exercise. It will be held mainly in Germany from June 12 to 23. 220 aircraft from 24 countries will reportedly participate in the “Air Defender 2023” exercise.

© dpa-infocom, dpa:230406-99-234576/2