US admiral urges Russia to observe NATO exercise

WASHINGTON — The U.S. Navy admiral who will command a major NATO military exercise meant to simulate the alliance’s response to a theoretical Russian attack on Norway is urging Russia to accept an invitation to send observers.

Adm. James Foggo told reporters at the Pentagon on Friday that he thinks Russia will want to be there. He said that by observing the defensive maneuvers, called Trident Juncture, the Russians would learn more about NATO’s capabilities. The NATO exercise begins Oct. 25

The exercises will involve 45,000 troops from the U.S. and other NATO member countries, plus Sweden and Finland, which cooperate with the alliance but are not members. Also involved will be about 150 aircraft, more than 60 ships and 10,000 military vehicles.

Foggo said it’s the largest NATO exercise since 2002.

In Other News

Advocates urge Austin to act on active duty obesity ‘epidemic’

A new letter urges defense leaders to do more to prevent, identify and treat obesity in the ranks.

The Coast Guard’s only Medal of Honor recipient died rescuing Marines

When asked if he could go back and extract the overwhelmed Marines from Guadalcanal, the 22-year-old Munro reportedly gave a confident, “Hell, yeah!”

VA expands benefits options for vets with other-than-honorable status

Veterans Affairs officials are updating rules regarding benefits eligibility to include more individuals with other-than-honorable discharges.

Senators unsure about House plan to boost troop pay, housing stipends

House lawmakers are moving ahead with plans to increase junior enlisted pay and military housing stipends, but the idea could face opposition in the Senate

Navy authorizes combat awards and devices for Red Sea operations

The move is a nod to the near-daily battles that Navy destroyers have fought with Iran-backed Houthi rebels in Yemen since October.

Load More