The United States and European NATO members will conduct a practical test of the maritime component of the missile defense system in October. This will be the first time this type of exercise has been held in Europe. This was reported on Friday, October 16, by Stars and Stripes with reference to the US Navy. According to the publication, along with the United States, Germany, Great Britain, Spain, Italy, Canada, the Netherlands, Norway and France should take part in the exercises. It is reported that four American destroyers will be involved in the test; the names of the ships and the location of the exercises are not reported.
The purpose of the maneuvers is to practice coordination of actions between the allies while simultaneously intercepting several missiles. The interception will use the SM-3 guided missile and the Aegis ballistic missile tracking system, which is installed on more than 30 US vessels.