The Cold Response 2026 exercise, hosted by Norway, is continuing under Arctic conditions. During the activities taking place between 9–19 March 2026, the Turkish Armed Forces (TAF) are participating in operational training alongside a total of 32,500 personnel from 14 allied countries. The exercise aims to enhance the operational capabilities of allied forces in the region and strengthen collective security preparedness.
Multi-Domain Operations and Headquarters Management
Cold Response 2026 is being conducted as a multi-domain operation covering land, sea, air, as well as cyber and space domains. Managed by the Norwegian-U.S. joint headquarters established in Reitan near Bodø, the exercise is ongoing across Northern Norway, Finland, and the surrounding Norwegian coastal waters. Within Norway’s “Total Defence” system, civilian institutions are also contributing to the process. Alongside real maneuvers, planning and decision-making processes are being tested through simulations involving large-scale forces.
Operational Details and Participating Countries
The overall objective of the exercise is to increase deterrence, strengthen allied defense capabilities, and ensure the security of the population. Of the 32,500 participants, 25,000 are deployed in Norway (approximately 11,800 from land forces), while 7,500 personnel are operating in Finland. In 2026, the Cold Response exercise is also significant for supporting the integration of Finland and Sweden into NATO.
The following countries are participating in Cold Response 2026: Türkiye, Norway, Finland, the United States, the United Kingdom, Germany, the Netherlands, France, Italy, Canada, Spain, Sweden, Denmark, and Belgium. Through Cold Response 2026, the exercises continue to practically test NATO’s unity and Norway’s defense capabilities.
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Source: C4Defence
