Large-Scale Nuke Exercise Underway Near Albany

Officials warn that this is only a drill and that there is no actual threat to public safety.

A large-scale nuclear response training exercise will take place in Schenectady and surrounding counties from January 26 to 31, 2025.

The multi-agency drill, which includes personnel from federal, state, and local law enforcement and emergency response teams, is designed to test preparedness in the event of a nuclear incident. The exercise will involve military aircraft, specialized protective equipment, and simulated emergency operations.

The training is being led by the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD), Department of Energy’s National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA), Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), Department of Homeland Security (DHS), and other state and local agencies. The exercise will focus on coordination between these entities to improve response strategies.

Local agencies participating in the exercise include the New York State Police, Albany, Saratoga, and Schenectady County Sheriff's Offices, and the Albany Police Department.

The exercise will take place in and around Albany International Airport, Stratton Air National Guard Base, and northern Saratoga County. Officials warn that residents in these areas may see military personnel in protective gear, emergency response teams, and aircraft operations. However, they emphasize that this is only a drill and that there is no actual threat to public safety.

Due to the sensitive nature of the training, the exercise is not open to the public or media.

Wayne County, located approximately 183 miles west of Schenectady, is not expected to experience any disruptions related to the exercise. Officials stress that the training will not pose any risk or require action from residents in Wayne County or the Finger Lakes region.

The nuclear response training is part of a series of regularly scheduled government exercises, which have been conducted across the U.S. since 2012. These drills are intended to ensure readiness in the event of a nuclear-related emergency, either domestically or abroad.

For further information, residents can contact local emergency management offices.