The United States is retracting a significant part of its planned air forces from the NATO exercise Cold Response in Northern Norway. This decision includes the withdrawal of advanced F-35 fighter jets, as confirmed by Norway's defense officials. The Colonel Lieutenant Espen Solemdal noted that some forces will not participate due to their reallocation to other global regions, particularly focusing on military buildup in the Middle East amid escalating tensions with Iran.

The Cold Response exercise is designed to gather thousands of soldiers and military forces across Norway and the Nordic region. While certain Osprey aircraft are still expected to attend, the absence of the main contingent of F-35s, along with approximately 100-150 American soldiers, is a significant shift in the planned military collaboration. This unexpected alteration raises concerns about the implications for NATO's collective training and readiness, given the strategic importance of these exercises in demonstrating allied solidarity and capability.

Despite these adjustments in American participation, the Norwegian leadership has reaffirmed that the exercise will continue as scheduled with the remaining troops. However, the withdrawal presents operational challenges for the Norwegian exercise leadership, highlighting the intricate balance of international military commitments.