International war games head north

A MAJOR international military exercise is set to get underway across the Highlands with ships, aircraft and land units participating.

Exercise Joint Warrior, which starts on October 7, is held during the spring and autumn of each year and involves army, navy and the RAF.

Running for two weeks (until October 17), the latest exercise will see participation by 16 separate naval units, over 40 fixed wing aircraft and a number of UK and allied land forces.

The maritime contingent, many of them operating off the north coast of Scotland, will involve ships from France, Denmark and Norway with Commander Danish Task Group leading the operations on board HDMS Absalon.

Royal Navy ships taking part include HMS Monmouth, HMS Portland, HMS Somerset, HMS Sutherland, HMS Cattistock, HMS Brocklesby, HMS Bangor and Type 23 Frigate HMS Northumberland.

RAF Lossiemouth will also be involved in the massive exercise, flying Tornado GR4 aircraft during the duration and hosting Maritime Patrol Aircraft from the US, Canada, France and Germany.

A small number of UK and allied land forces will also be conducting military training, using defence training estate ranges, commercial ranges, Highland Agency and private land throughout Scotland.

The MoD says another essential part of preparation for real-world operations is GPS denial and during the upcoming exercise GPS jamming will be practiced.

They say it will be limited to a confined area in North West Scotland at specific times and relevant authorities, including aviation and maritime communities, have been consulted.