Geopolitical Context & NATO Strategy - NATO is conducting a large-scale military maneuver in the North Sea, Baltic Sea, and Mediterranean, facing an eastern direction, planned months in advance, in the context of rising tensions with Russia [1][5][6] - The maneuvers aim to practice and demonstrate NATO's ability to coordinate multiple militaries across multiple theaters as a form of deterrence [8] - NATO aims to project power eastward, signaling to Russia and eastern members that the alliance can respond to threats in hours without needing a massive hardware presence in Eastern Europe [10] - Recent incursions into NATO airspace by Russian aircraft and drones have heightened tensions and prompted additional NATO operations, such as pre-deploying air defense assets in Eastern Europe [11][12] Military Operations & Capabilities - The USS Gerald Ford aircraft carrier is deployed in the North Sea as part of the NATO maneuver [1] - The USS Gerald Ford launched an entire squadron of F-18 fighter jets shortly after arrival, followed by another squadron landing, demonstrating rapid launch and recovery capabilities [4] - Some of the launched planes were flying missions, patrols, and hitting simulated targets in Poland, Lithuania, and Finland, which are 1000 miles away [6] - A German defense official reported that Russian planes buzzed a German frigate taking part in these exercises [14] Perceptions & Concerns - There is a sense of heightened anxiety about Russia's intentions and a perception that Russia is testing the alliance and America's commitment [13] - Mysterious drone sightings over airports in Oslo and Copenhagen have fueled speculation of Russian involvement [13][14]