Jordan, US launch major military exercises

Jordan and the United States kick off annual military exercises known as “Eager Lion” with about 7,400 troops from more than 20 nations taking part, officials say.

US and Jordanian officials say the maneuvers include border security, cyber defense, and “command and control” exercises, to bolster coordination in response to threats including terrorism.

“Joint efforts and coordination and the exchange of expertise… are needed at the time when the region is facing the threat of terrorism,” Jordanian Brigadier General Khalid al-Shara, who will head the exercises, tells reporters.

US Marines monitor Eager Lion multinational military maneuvers in Quweira, south of Amman, Jordan, on June 18, 2013. (photo credit: AP/Maya Alleruzzo, File)

US Major General Bill Hickman, deputy commanding general for the American army in the region, says this year’s “Eager Lion” exercises — the seventh so far — are “the largest and most complex to date.”

The highlight of this year’s exercise, he said, will be that “for the first time ever a global strike mission” will be conducted by “two US Air Force B-1B bomber aircraft” — a long-range multi-mission bomber.

— AFP