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News | June 10, 2013

Press Conference Kicks Off Exercise Eager Lion 2013

By Zach Mott Sgt., CENTCOM Public Affairs

AMMAN, Jordan (June 9, 2013) – This year 19 countries are gathering in the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan for the annual military training Exercise Eager Lion which serves to increase the capabilities and partnerships of the participating countries from June 9 to 20.

“This exercise is designed to encounter national security challenges such as counterinsurgency, border security, close air support and integration of the whole of government,” said Maj. Gen. Awni al Adwan, chairman of joint task force with the Jordanian Army who spoke during the press conference announcing the beginning of Eager Lion 2013.

In hosting this military training exercise, Jordan is generously opening its doors to allow more than 8,000 participants who will be conducting operations by land, air and sea.

Eager Lion includes events ranging from visit, board, search and seizure techniques to live-fire demonstrations being conducted by the participating militaries.

“All of this combined training, led by the Jordanian Armed Forces will come together over the next two weeks, strengthening the partnership between 19 countries and increasing the ability of participating nations to operate together during any contingency,” said Maj. Gen. Robert G. Catalanotti, who serves as the U.S. Central Command Director, Exercises and Training.