Eager Lion remains a pivotal event that highlights the US military’s enduring relationship with the Jordanian Armed Forces (JAF).

This annual exercise, led by US Central Command (CENTCOM), emphasizes collaboration and preparedness across critical domains such as air, land, sea and cyber operations.

By fostering interoperability and trust, Eager Lion ensures that partner nations can respond effectively to both conventional and emerging threats.

Forging stronger security alliances

The most recent iteration, Eager Lion 24, involved forces from multiple nations working to refine interoperability, share expertise and develop strategies against modern hybrid threats.

One of the largest multilateral drills in the Middle East, it included participants from varied regions such as Central Asia, Europe, North Africa and Australia.

This broad approach strengthens collective security and readiness against the wide range of challenges seen in today’s rapidly evolving defense environment.

A significant focus during Eager Lion is improving interoperability, ensuring that forces from different countries can work together seamlessly during live operations or emergency responses.

Whether addressing conventional military threats or unconventional challenges like cyberwarfare or disaster relief, this exercise helps to deepen trust and improve coordination among partner nations.

Preparing for Eager Lion 26 in 2026

The upcoming Eager Lion 26, scheduled for May 2026, is expected to continue building stronger regional partnerships.

Jordan will serve as both host and a key partner, providing an essential platform for exchanging military expertise and responding to humanitarian and disaster scenarios.

Eager Lion, more than a military exercise, is the capstone event symbolizing the long-standing partnership between the US and Jordan.

This exercise, focusing on addressing hybrid threats such as insurgency, cyberattacks and irregular warfare, reflects its importance in an era marked by multifaceted security concerns.

Beyond strengthening the bond between US and Jordanian forces, Eager Lion stands as an example of effective multilateral cooperation.

By incorporating diverse regional perspectives and capabilities, participants work together to address rapidly changing threat environments.

This shared expertise ensures that military partnerships remain adaptable and well-equipped to face emerging challenges in the 21st century.

Governments increasingly face irregular threats that impact military, economic, political and cyber domains.

Exercises like Eager Lion give nations a vital chance to strengthen interoperability and refine defense strategies.

Through collaboration, mutual respect and shared goals, the US and Jordan set the standard for partnerships focused on readiness and security in a complex world.