Warships arriving on the River Clyde this week - here's why they are in Glasgow

Some impressive warships are set to arrive on the River Clyde in Glasgow this week.

The ships are part of an armada of NATO vessels involved in a huge military exercise - the biggest to take place in Europe this year.

Standing NATO Maritime Group One and Standing NATO Mine Countermeasures Group One have already arrived in the city, the Daily Record reports.

More vessels are also expected as part of preparations for Exercise Joint Warrior.

This brings together elements from the Royal Navy, the Royal Air Force and the British Army, as well as forces from other nations.

The UK-led war exercise, which takes place in spring and autumn each year, sees the three forces join with those of 13 other nations including the likes of Belgium, Canada, the US, France and Germany.

A spokesperson for the Royal Navy said: “This massive multinational war exercise involves warships, aircraft, marines and troops from UK, NATO and allied forces.

"The exercise doesn’t only allow participating units to hone their specialist roles within a larger war-style setting – it also helps foster vital links between the UK, NATO and other allied militaries."

Taking place over two weeks, Joint Warrior includes airborne assaults, amphibious landings, evacuations and live-fire exercises. The HMS Prince of Wales is also expected to take part.

The multinational exercise will run from Saturday, September 18 until Thursday, September 30 and includes a number of participating vessels departing from ports on the west coast.

25 warships, three submarines, more than 30 aircraft and around 6,750 military personnel are expected to take part.

The spokesperson for the Royal Navy added: "The aim is to provide a complex environment in which the participants can train together, honing tactics and skills in preparation for deployment as a Combined Joint Task Force.

"The scenario for each Joint Warrior is designed to reflect contemporary political tensions – such as the War on Terror and the threat posed by ISIS – and to simulate the hostilities that might result from them. The ultimate aim? To assure maximum preparedness in the face of any threat.”