NATO rolls out Steadfast Dart exercise 2026 amid tensions over Greenland
Illustrative photo: NATO launches Steadfast Dart exercise 2026 (Getty Images)
NATO has launched its largest military exercise of 2026, Steadfast Dart, to practice the rapid deployment of troops and equipment in the event of a possible Russian attack on the Baltic states or Poland, according to Bild.
The media reports that Germany plays a key role in the exercises, effectively becoming NATO's main defense hub. More than 10,000 troops from 11 member states are being deployed to the country.
Steadfast Dart involves 17 ships, 20 military aircraft, and around 1,500 pieces of heavy equipment, including tanks, missile systems, and military trucks.
Germany as NATO's central defense hub
As part of Steadfast Dart, NATO is deploying the Allied Reaction Force, a mobile rapid-response unit designed for immediate action in crisis situations. The exercises are commanded by Commander of JFC Brunssum General Ingo Gerhartz, who oversees NATO forces in Central Europe.
According to him, Steadfast Dart is designed to demonstrate NATO's ability to defend its territory quickly and cohesively.
"Our command is responsible for defending the Alliance from the Atlantic coast to the Baltic states. These exercises show how vital Germany's role is as NATO's defense hub," Gerhartz said.
Tensions over Greenland
Following US operations in Venezuela, President Donald Trump said control over Greenland was vital for national security, claiming the island is allegedly surrounded by Russian and Chinese fleets and that Denmark cannot provide adequate security.
Trump initially did not rule out using force to establish control over Greenland. A similar stance was voiced by White House deputy chief of staff Stephen Miller, who emphasized that Greenland should be integrated into the US national security framework, even if tough measures are required.
In response, NATO deployed a limited but symbolic contingent of allied forces to the island. Trump also announced intentions to impose tariffs on countries openly supporting Denmark, though his warnings—particularly regarding a NATO military presence—drew little reaction from Europe.
The situation was ultimately resolved diplomatically. On January 21, after meeting NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte in Davos, US President announced progress toward a framework agreement on Greenland that respects Denmark's sovereignty while updating the 1951 Danish-American defense pact.
