Scotland hosting 13 countries for tri-service drill Joint Warrior

Scotland is set to host 35 warships, 5 submarines and 59 aircraft and helicopters from 13 countries for this year’s edition of exercise Joint Warrior which is starting on March 30.

More than 10,000 military personnel from the UK’s Royal Navy, Army, Royal Air Force and their allies will carry out two weeks of joint operations involving different forces and units and against a range of current and future threats.

The exercise will be controlled and directed from the Maritime Operations Centre at Scotland’s largest military establishment, HM Naval Base Clyde, with a range of air, surface, sub-surface, sea control and maritime security roles being rehearsed off the West Coast of Scotland.

Forces from Belgium, Canada, Denmark, Estonia, France, Germany, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, the Netherlands, Norway, Spain, the UK and the US will be split into two opposing Task Forces following the initial briefing weekend at HMNB Clyde.

Starting in the Scottish exercise areas (water and airspace generally to the West of Scotland, particularly The Minches), the exercise will progress elements of the Task Forces south to conduct an amphibious exercise off the South West Coast of Wales.

“The UK military is a partner of choice for its major international allies and a resolute force for peace around the world. The UK will not waver in continuing to work with its allies to protect our mutual interests,” UK defense secretary Gavin Williamson said.