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{{short description|Combined military forces of Jordan}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=March 2021}}
{{Infobox national military
{{Infobox national military
|country=Jordan
|country=Jordan
|name=Jordanian Armed Forces<br />القوات المسلحة الأردنية
|name=Jordanian Armed Forces
|native_name={{lang|ar|القوات المسلحة الأردنية}}
|image=[[File:Jordanian Armed Forces (emblem).png|alt=Emblem of the Jordanian Armed Forces|Emblem of the Jordanian Armed Forces|225px]]
|image= Jordanian Armed Forces (emblem).png
|alt=Emblem of the Jordanian Armed Forces
|caption=Emblem of the Jordanian Armed Forces
|caption=Emblem of the Jordanian Armed Forces
|founded= 22 October 1920
|founded= 22 October 1920
|current_form= 1 March 1956
|current_form= 1 March 1956
|branches={{army|Jordan}}<br />{{navy|Jordan}}<br />{{air force|Jordan}}
|branches={{flagicon image|Army Ensign of Jordan.png|size=23px}} [[Royal Jordanian Army]]<br />{{nowrap|{{flagicon image|Ensign of the Royal Jordanian Air Force.svg}} [[Royal Jordanian Air Force]]}}<br />{{flagicon image|Naval Ensign of Jordan.svg}} [[Royal Jordanian Navy]]
|headquarters= [[Amman]]
|headquarters= [[Amman]]
<!-- Leadership -->
<!-- Leadership -->
|commander-in-chief=[[Abdullah II of Jordan]]
|commander-in-chief = [[Field marshal|Field Marshal]] [[King Abdullah II]]
|commander-in-chief_title=[[Commander-in-chief]]
|commander-in-chief_title= [[Monarchy of Jordan|Commander-in-chief]]
|minister=[[Hani Al-Mulki]]
|minister=[[Bisher Al-Khasawneh]]
|minister_title=[[Chief of Defence]]
|minister_title=[[Minister of Defence]]
|commander=[[Mashal Al-Zaben]]
|commander=[[Major General]] [[Yousef Huneiti]]
|commander_title=Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff
|commander_title=[[Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff (Jordan)|Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff]]
<!-- Manpower -->
<!-- Manpower -->
|age=18–49 years old
|age=18–49 years old
|conscription=
|conscription=<small>Suspended indefinitely in 1992; all members are regular volunteers.</small>
|manpower_data=
|manpower_data=
|manpower_age=
|manpower_age=
|available=
|available=
|available_f=
|available_f=
|size=3,000,000 (2010 est.)
|fit=
|fit=
|fit_f=
|fit_f=
|reaching=
|reaching=
|reaching_f=
|reaching_f=
|active=100,500<ref name=IISS2021>{{cite book| title=The Military Balance 2021| author=International Institute for Strategic Studies| author-link=International Institute for Strategic Studies| date=25 February 2021| publisher=[[Routledge]]| location=[[London]]| page=347| isbn=9781032012278 }}</ref>
|active=110,700
|reserve=65,000<ref name=IISS2021/>
|ranked= 44th
|reserve=60,000 Land Forces, 5,000 Joint (2013 est.)
|deployed=
|deployed=
<!-- Financial -->
<!-- Financial -->
|amount=$2.5b (2015 est.)
|amount=$2.6 billion
|percent_GDP=7% (2015 est.)
|percent_GDP=6.5%
<!-- Industrial -->
<!-- Industrial -->
|foreign_suppliers=
|foreign_suppliers={{flag|Argentina}}<br />{{flag|United States}}<br />{{flag|Germany}}<br />{{flag|Pakistan}}<br />{{flag|Poland}}<br />{{flag|Japan}}<br />{{flag|Russia}}<br />{{flag|Uruguay}}<br />{{flag|France}}<br />{{flag|China}}<br />{{flag|Egypt}}<br />{{flag|South Korea}}<br />{{flag|Serbia}}<br />{{flag|Taiwan}}<br />{{flag|Colombia}}<br />{{flag|Turkey}}<br />{{flag|Ukraine}}<br />{{flag|Croatia}}<br />{{flag|United Kingdom}}<br />{{flag|Israel}}<br />{{flag|Mexico}}<br />{{flag|Brazil}}<br />{{flag|Saudi Arabia}}<br />{{flag|Chile}}<br />{{flag|Italy}}<br />{{flag|Greece}}<br />{{flag|India}}<br />{{flag|Australia}}<br />{{flag|Venezuela}}<br />{{flag|Bulgaria}}<br />{{flag|Guatemala}}
{{flag|Australia}}<br />{{flag|Brazil}}<br />{{flag|Canada}}<br />{{flag|China}}<br />{{flag|Czech Republic}}<br />{{flag|France}}<br />{{flag|Germany}}<br />{{flag|India}}<br />{{flag|Italy}}<br />{{flag|Japan}}<br />{{flag|South Korea}}<br />{{flag|Netherlands}}<br />{{flag|Poland}}<br />{{flag|Russia}}<br />{{flag|South Africa}}<br />{{flag|Sweden}}<br />{{flag|Taiwan}}<br />{{flag|Turkey}}<br />{{flag|Ukraine}}<br />{{flag|United Kingdom}}<br />{{flag|United States}}
|domestic_suppliers=[[File:KADDBlogo.png|24px]] [[King Abdullah Design and Development Bureau|KADDB]]
|domestic_suppliers= [[Jordan Design and Development Bureau]]
|imports=$300 million
|imports=
|exports=$72 million
|exports=
<!-- Related articles -->
<!-- Related articles -->
|history=
|history=
[[1948 Arab–Israeli War|Arab–Israeli War]] (1948-1949)<br /> [[Reprisal operations|Retribution operations]] (1950s)<br />[[Six-Day War]] (1967)<br /> [[War of Attrition]] (1967-1970)<br /> [[Battle of Karameh]] (1968)<br /> [[Black September in Jordan|Black September]] (1970)<br /> [[Yom Kippur War]] (1973)<br /> [[2011 Libyan Civil War|Libyan Civil War]] (2011)<br /> [[Military intervention against the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant|International military intervention against ISIL]] (2014-present)<br /> [[2015 military intervention in Yemen]] (2015)
[[World War II]] (1940–45)<br />[[1948 Arab–Israeli War|Arab–Israeli War]]<br /> [[Reprisal operations|Retribution operations]] (1950s)<br />[[Six-Day War]]<br /> [[War of Attrition]] (1967–70)<br /> [[Battle of Karameh]] (1968)<br /> [[Black September in Jordan|Black September]]<br /> [[Yom Kippur War]]<br />[[Yemeni Civil War (1994)]]<br /> [[1999 East Timorese crisis]]<br /> [[First Libyan Civil War]]<br /> [[Military intervention against the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant|International military intervention against ISIL]] (2014–present)<br /> [[Saudi-led intervention in Yemen]] (2015)
|ranks=[[Jordanian military ranks]]
|ranks=[[Jordanian military ranks]]
}}
}}
The '''Jordanian Armed Forces''' (القوات المسلحة الأردنية), also referred to as the '''Arab Army''' (الجيش العربي), are the military forces of the [[Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan]]. They consist of the [[Royal Jordanian Army|ground forces]], [[Royal Jordanian Air Force|air force]], and [[Royal Jordanian Navy|navy]] and is under the direct control of the [[King of Jordan]] who is the [[Commander-in-Chief]]. The current Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff is Lieutenant General [[Mashal Al-Zaben]], who is also the King's military adviser.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.jordantimes.com/news/local/army-intelligence-chiefs-appointed-king%E2%80%99s-advisers-keep-present-jobs |title=Army, intelligence chiefs appointed King’s advisers, keep present jobs |publisher=Jordan Times |date= |accessdate=2016-06-10}}</ref>
The '''Jordanian Armed Forces''' ('''JAF''') ({{lang-ar|القوات المسلحة الأردنية}}, [[romanized]]: ''Al-Quwwat Al-Musallaha Al-Urduniyya''), also referred to as the '''Arab Army''' ({{lang-ar|الجيش العربي}}, ''Al-Jaysh Al-Arabi''), are the military forces of the [[Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan]]. They consist of the [[Royal Jordanian Army|ground forces]], [[Royal Jordanian Air Force|air force]], and [[Royal Jordanian Navy|navy]]. They are under the direct control of the [[King of Jordan]] who is the Supreme Commander of the Jordanian Armed Forces and acts by recommendation of the [[Ministry of Defence (Jordan)|Defence Minister]]. The current [[Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff (Jordan)|Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff]] is Major General [[Yousef Huneiti]], who is also the King's military adviser.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://jordantimes.com/news/local/freihat-appointed-chairman-joint-chiefs-staff|title=Freihat appointed chairman of joint chiefs-of-staff|work=Jordan Times |date=2 October 2016|access-date=2 October 2016}}</ref>


First organized army in Jordan was established on 22 October 1920, and was named the "Mobile Force", at the time it was 150 men strong. On its third anniversary in 1923, the force was renamed the [[Arab Legion]], consisting of 1000 men. By the time Jordan became an independent state in 1946, Arab Legion numbered some 8,000 soldiers in 3 mechanized regiments. In 1956, all British generals were dismissed, and the name was finally changed into the Jordanian Army. The army fought in several wars and battles, mostly against Israel. In the [[1948 Arab–Israeli War]], the capture of the [[West Bank]] by Jordan and the decisive [[Battles of Latrun]], proved that the Arab Legion was the most effective army during the war. Several confrontations followed with Israel; [[Retribution operations]], [[Six Day War]], [[War of Attrition]] and [[Yom Kippor War]]. Jordan also had to face the [[PLO]] and the [[Syrian Army]] during the events of [[Black September in Jordan|Black September]]. The signing of the [[Israel–Jordan peace treaty]] in 1994 ended the state of hostility between the two countries, and allowed them to resume normal functioning.<ref name="Encyclopedia">{{cite web|url=https://books.google.jo/books?id=U05OvsOPeKMC&pg=PA662&dq=jordan+armed+forces&hl=en&sa=X&ved=0ahUKEwj78YGVsb7KAhXEVHIKHWDMD2oQ6AEINDAE#v=onepage&q=jordan%20armed%20forces&f=false |title=The Encyclopedia of Middle East Wars: The United States in the Persian Gulf ... - Google Books |publisher=Books.google.jo |date= |accessdate=2016-06-10}}</ref>
The first organized army in Jordan was established on 22 October 1920, and was named the "Mobile Force". At the time it only had 150 men in its ranks. On its third anniversary in 1923, the force was renamed the [[Arab Legion]], consisting of 1,000 men. By the time Jordan became an independent state in 1946, the Arab Legion numbered some 8,000 soldiers in 3 mechanized regiments. In 1956, [[Hussein of Jordan|King Hussein]] dismissed all British generals and changed the name of the Legion into the "Jordanian Arab Army" in what became known as the [[Arabization of the Jordanian Army command]].


The army fought in [[List of wars involving Jordan|several wars and battles]], mostly against Israel. In the [[1948 Arab–Israeli War]], the capture of the [[West Bank]] by Jordan and the decisive [[Battles of Latrun]], proved that the Arab Legion was the most effective army during the war. Several confrontations followed with Israel, resulting in mixed success; they included the [[Retribution operations]], the [[Six-Day War]], the [[War of Attrition]] and [[Yom Kippur War]]. Jordan also had to face the [[PLO]] and the [[Syrian Army]] during the events of [[Black September in Jordan|Black September]]. The signing of the [[Israel–Jordan peace treaty]] in 1994 ended the state of belligerency between the two countries.<ref name="Encyclopedia">{{cite book|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=U05OvsOPeKMC&q=jordan+armed+forces&pg=PA662 |title=The Encyclopedia of Middle East Wars: The United States in the Persian Gulf | via= Google Books |year= 2010|isbn=978-1851099481 |access-date=2016-06-10|last1=Tucker |first1=Spencer C. |publisher=Abc-Clio }}</ref>
⚫
It is today considered to be among the most professional in the region, and is seen as particularly well-trained and organized.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://hyperstealth.com/ka2/military/index.htm |title=Jordan Armed Forces modernization continues with wide scale issue of new KA2 Digital Camouflage |publisher=Hyperstealth.com |date= |accessdate=2016-06-10}}</ref>

⚫
It is today considered to be among the most professional in the region, and is seen as particularly well-trained, organized, and equipped.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://hyperstealth.com/ka2/military/index.htm |title=Jordan Armed Forces modernization continues with wide scale issue of new KA2 Digital Camouflage |publisher=Hyperstealth.com |access-date=2016-06-10}}</ref>


== History ==
== History ==
{{Further|Royal Jordanian Army#Formation}}
{{Further|Royal Jordanian Army#Formation}}
{{See also|Arab Legion|Desert Force|Transjordan Frontier Force}}
{{See also|Arab Legion|Desert Force|Transjordan Frontier Force|Arabization of the Jordanian Army command}}
[[File:Arab Revolt.jpg|thumb|180px|left|Arab Revolt Tribal Cavalry – Tribes of Jordan and Arabia, {{c.|1918}}]]
[[File:Arab Revolt.jpg|thumb|180px|left|Arab Revolt Tribal Cavalry – Tribes of Jordan and Arabia, {{circa|lk=no|1918}}]]
[[File:030Arab.jpg|thumb|180px|left|Arab army during the [[Arab revolt]] of 1916 against the [[Ottoman Empire]] formed the nucleus of the Arab Legion.]]
[[File:030Arab.jpg|thumb|180px|left|Arab army during the [[Arab revolt]] of 1916 against the [[Ottoman Empire]] formed the nucleus of the Arab Legion.]]
[[File:Glubb Pasha in Amman.jpg|thumb|180px|left|Commander of the [[Arab Legion]], [[Glubb Pasha]] in uniform. [[Amman]], September 11, 1940.]]
[[File:Glubb Pasha in Amman.jpg|thumb|180px|left|Commander of the [[Arab Legion]], [[Glubb Pasha]] in uniform. [[Amman]], September 11, 1940.]]


The first organized army in Jordan was established on 22 October 1920, and was named the "Mobile Force", at the time it was 150 man strong under the command of the British Captain [[Frederick Peake]]. On its third anniversary, in October 1923, the now 1000 man force was renamed the [[Arab Legion]].
The first organized army in Jordan was established on 22 October 1920, and was named the "Mobile Force", at the time it was 150 man strong under the command of the British Captain [[Frederick Peake]]. On its third anniversary, in October 1923, the now-1,000-man force was renamed the [[Arab Legion]].


In 1939, [[John Bagot Glubb]], better known as Glubb Pasha, became the Legion's commander, and continued in office until the dismissal of British officers in March 1956. On 1 April 1926, the [[Transjordan Frontier Force]] was formed, consisting of only 150 men and most of them were stationed along Transjordan's roads.
In 1939, [[John Bagot Glubb]], better known as Glubb Pasha, became the Legion's commander, and continued in office until the dismissal of British officers in March 1956. On 1 April 1926, the [[Transjordan Frontier Force]] was formed, consisting of only 150 men and most of them were stationed along Transjordan's roads.


The [[Arabization of the Jordanian Army command]] (Arabic: تعريب قيادة الجيش العربي{{lrm}}, Ta'reeb Qiyadat Al-Jaysh Al-Arabi) saw the dismissal of senior British officers commanding the [[Arab Legion]] by [[Hussein of Jordan|King Hussein]] and the subsequent renaming of the Legion into the Jordanian Armed Forces on 1 March 1956. [[Glubb Pasha]], the Arab Legion's British commander, was replaced with Major General [[Radi Annab]], who became the first Arab commander of the Arab Legion. Hussein's intentions to Arabize the Army command were to replace British officers with Jordanian officers, assert political independence from Britain, and improve relations with neighboring Arab states that viewed the British with suspicion. An annual celebration is held on 1 March in Jordan to mark the historic event.
The Jordanian Armed Forces was formed on 1 March 1956 by renaming the [[Arab Legion]]. Then-[[King Hussein]] wanted at the time to distance himself from the British and disprove the contention of Arab nationalists that John Glubb, the Arab Legion's commander, was the actual ruler of Jordan. Glubb was dismissed on the same date and replaced with Maj.-Gen. Radi Annab, the first Arab commander of the Arab Legion.


Timeline of the history and development of the [[Royal Jordanian Army|Jordanian Army]] and the [[Arab Legion]]:
Timeline of the history and development of the [[Royal Jordanian Army|Jordanian Army]] and the [[Arab Legion]]:
Line 68: Line 73:
| [[Royal Jordanian Army#Origins – 1920–1947|1920–1947]] || [[Royal Jordanian Army#Pre-1948 War|Pre-1948 War]] || [[Royal Jordanian Army#1948 War|1948 War]] || [[Royal Jordanian Army#Battles – 1956|Battles – 1956]] || [[Royal Jordanian Army#Kuwait – 1963|Kuwait – 1963]]
| [[Royal Jordanian Army#Origins – 1920–1947|1920–1947]] || [[Royal Jordanian Army#Pre-1948 War|Pre-1948 War]] || [[Royal Jordanian Army#1948 War|1948 War]] || [[Royal Jordanian Army#Battles – 1956|Battles – 1956]] || [[Royal Jordanian Army#Kuwait – 1963|Kuwait – 1963]]
|-
|-
| [[Royal Jordanian Army#Sammu Battle – 1966|Sammu Battle – 1966]] || [[Royal Jordanian Army#Six Day War – 1967|Six Day War – 1967]] || [[Royal Jordanian Army#1967–1973 War|1967–1973]] || [[Royal Jordanian Army#After 1977|After 1977]] || [[Royal Jordanian Army#2000 – Present Status|2000–present]]
| [[Royal Jordanian Army#Sammu Battle – 1966|Sammu Battle – 1966]] || [[Royal Jordanian Army#Six-Day War – 1967|Six-Day War – 1967]] || [[Royal Jordanian Army#1967–1973 War|1967–1973]] || [[Royal Jordanian Army#After 1977|After 1977]] || [[Royal Jordanian Army#2000 – Present Status|2000–present]]
|}
|}


== Structure and objectives ==
== Structure and objectives ==
:''Main: [[Royal Jordanian Army#Current Command Structure|Current Command Structure of the Jordanian Army]]''
{{Main|Royal Jordanian Army#Current structure of the Jordanian Army}}
::''See also: [[Royal Jordanian Army]], [[Royal Jordanian Air Force]], [[Royal Naval Force]]''
{{See also|Royal Jordanian Army|Royal Jordanian Air Force|Royal Jordanian Navy}}
The army's organisational structure was traditionally based on two armoured divisions and two mechanized divisions. These have been transformed into a lighter, more mobile forces, based largely on a brigade structure and considered better capable of rapid reaction in emergencies. An armoured division has become the core element of a strategic reserve.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://articles.janes.com/articles/Janes-Sentinel-Security-Assessment-Eastern-Mediterranean/Armed-forces-Jordan.html|title=Defense & Security Intelligence & Analysis: IHS Jane's - IHS|publisher=|accessdate=19 June 2016}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.echoesfromjordan.com/index.php/jordan-armed-forces|title=echoesfromjordan.com - echoesfromjordan Resources and Information.|publisher=|accessdate=19 June 2016}}</ref>
The army's organisational structure was traditionally based on two armoured divisions and two mechanized divisions. These have been transformed into a lighter, more mobile forces, based largely on a brigade structure and considered better capable of rapid reaction in emergencies. An armoured division has become the core element of a strategic reserve.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://articles.janes.com/articles/Janes-Sentinel-Security-Assessment-Eastern-Mediterranean/Armed-forces-Jordan.html|title=Defense & Security Intelligence & Analysis: IHS Jane's|access-date=19 June 2016|archive-date=27 January 2013|archive-url=https://archive.today/20130127084056/http://articles.janes.com/articles/Janes-Sentinel-Security-Assessment-Eastern-Mediterranean/Armed-forces-Jordan.html|url-status=dead}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.echoesfromjordan.com/index.php/jordan-armed-forces|title=echoesfromjordan.com Resources and Information|access-date=19 June 2016|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160825224950/http://www.echoesfromjordan.com/index.php/jordan-armed-forces|archive-date=25 August 2016}}</ref>


The main objectives of the Jordanian Armed Forces are:
The main objectives of the Jordanian Armed Forces are:
:# Protect the [[Kingdom of Jordan]] borders from any invasion.
# Protect the [[Kingdom of Jordan]] borders from any invasion.
:# Protect the people inside the Kingdom and their rights.
# Protect the people inside the Kingdom and their rights.
:# Protect the [[List of kings of Jordan|King of Jordan]].
# Protect the [[List of kings of Jordan|King of Jordan]].


{{wide image|Jordanian Army.png|1200px|Royal Jordanian Army Order of Battle (OrBat) 2013}}
{{wide image|Jordanian Army OrBat 2020 (2).png|1200px|Royal Jordanian Army Order of Battle (OrBat) 2020}}


== Special Operations Forces ==
=== Special Operations Forces ===
{{Main article|Joint Special Operations Command (Jordan)|l1=Joint Special Operations Command}}
{{Main|Joint Special Operations Command (Jordan)|l1=Joint Special Operations Command}}
[[File:Two F-16 of the Royal Jordanian Air Force.jpg|thumb|200px|Royal Jordanian Air Force [[F-16]] Fighting Falcon aircraft fighter pilots fly over Jordan October 19, 2009]]
[[File:Two F-16 of the Royal Jordanian Air Force.jpg|thumb|200px|Royal Jordanian Air Force [[F-16]] Fighting Falcon aircraft fighter pilots fly over Jordan, 19 October 2009]]
[[File:Royal Jordanian special Forces.jpg|thumb|200px|[[Joint Special Operations Command (Jordan)|Special Operation Forces]] at [[Shaheed Mwaffaq Air Base]] showing a [[KADDB]] manufactured Desert Iris vehicle, November 2010]]
[[File:Royal Jordanian special Forces.jpg|thumb|200px|[[Joint Special Operations Command (Jordan)|Special Operation Forces]] at [[Shaheed Mwaffaq Air Base]] showing a [[KADDB]] manufactured Desert Iris vehicle, November 2010]]
Over the years, the development of the Royal Special Operations Forces has been particularly significant, enhancing the capability of the forces to react rapidly to threats to state security, as well as training special forces from the region and beyond.<ref>[http://www.globalresearch.ca/index.php?context=va&aid=19149 Jordan Says It Trained 2,500 Afghan Special Forces | Global Research<!-- Bot generated title -->]{{dead link|date=October 2014}}</ref><ref>[http://www.google.com/hostednews/afp/article/ALeqM5ijjb8xn57wfIS3SSG1it64ydGeZg AFP: Jordan trained 2,500 Afghan special forces: minister<!-- Bot generated title -->]{{dead link|date=October 2014}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.strategypage.com/htmw/htsf/20100514.aspx|title=Special Operations: Jordanian Commandos Show The Way|publisher=|accessdate=19 June 2016}}</ref>


Founded on 15 April 1963, on the orders of the late King Hussein, its primary roles include reconnaissance, counter-terrorism, search and evacuation, intelligence gathering combat, and the protection of key sites. [[Special Operation Forces (Jordan)|King Abdullah II Special Forces Group]] are also charged with carrying out precision strikes against critical enemy targets. The unit is equipped and trained to be able to operate behind enemy lines for long periods without any logistical support, and is considered one of the finest special forces units in the world.<ref name="auto">{{Cite web|url=https://www.americanprogress.org/issues/security/reports/2017/11/30/443272/future-u-s-jordanian-counterterrorism-cooperation/|title=The Future of U.S.–Jordanian Counterterrorism Cooperation|first1=Hardin|last1=Lang|first2=William|last2=Wechsler|first3=Alia|last3=Awadallah|website=Center for American Progress}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.businessinsider.com/jordans-special-forces-are-some-of-the-regions-best-2015-2|last1=Bender|first1=Jeremy|date=February 4, 2015|title=Jordan's special forces are some of the best in the Middle East|website=Business Insider|access-date=27 April 2016}}</ref>
[[Jordan]] has embarked on the installation of a sophisticated Command, Control, Communications, Computers, Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (C4ISR) system which is expected to enhance interoperability between the armed services and also between Jordanian and coalition forces as well as improving Jordan's air defense system.<ref name="specialforces" >{{cite web|url=http://www.janes.com/extracts/extract/emedsu/jords100.html |title=Defense & Security Intelligence & Analysis: IHS Jane's &#124; IHS |publisher=Janes.com |date= |accessdate=2016-06-10}}</ref>


The group is supported by the newly founded [[Rapid Intervention / High Readiness Brigade|Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed (MbZ) Quick Reaction Force (QRF) Brigade]] which is a brigade-strength forces with high combat readiness, immediate response speed, flexible and highly mobile that are able to operate independently, within Jordanian forces, or with friendly and allied forces to defend Jordanian national security within the borders of the Kingdom of Jordan or Outside in all circumstances at the time and place and in accordance with the orders of the General Command of the Armed Forces.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.americanprogress.org/issues/security/reports/2017/11/30/443272/future-u-s-jordanian-counterterrorism-cooperation/|author1=Hardin Lang |author2=William Wechsler |author3=Alia Awadallah |title=The Future of U.S.–Jordanian Counterterrorism Cooperation|website=Center for American Progress|date=November 30, 2017|access-date=25 May 2018}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.jordantimes.com/news/local/rapid-intervention-brigade-named-after-sheikh-mohammed-bin-zayed|title=Rapid intervention brigade named after Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed|date=November 21, 2018|website=Jordan Times}}</ref><ref name="auto Latest defence and security news">{{Cite web|url=https://janescom.sitefinity.cloud/defence-news|title=Janes &#124; Latest defence and security news|website=Janes.com|access-date=1 November 2020|archive-date=18 May 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200518234913/https://janescom.sitefinity.cloud/defence-news|url-status=dead}}</ref>
In order to better cope with a range of potential threats, Jordan has been re-organizing its armed forces. There has been a greater emphasis on rapid reaction and special forces.<ref name='specialforces' /> The [[Joint Special Operations Command (Jordan)|Joint Special Operations Command]] (JSOC), founded in the mid-1990s, has been focusing on both internal security in support of the [[Middle East]] peace process and border security. In the latter role, JSOC gives particular attention to sophisticated smuggling operations on the [[Iraq]]i border and terrorist infiltration along the [[Syrian]] frontier. Jordanian forces also have a focus on the sensitive frontier along the East Bank of the Jordan River (the border shared with Israel).

== Intelligence ==
{{Main article|General Intelligence Directorate (Jordan)|l1=General Intelligence Directorate}}
The Jordanian General Intelligence Directorate (GID) is reportedly one of the most important intelligence agencies in the [[Middle East]],<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2010/01/03/AR2010010302063.html|title=Jordan emerges as key CIA counterterrorism ally|first=Joby|last=Warrick|date=4 January 2010|publisher=|accessdate=19 June 2016|via=washingtonpost.com}}</ref> and is considered one of the most professional in the [[Arab world]].<ref name='USnews'>[http://www.usnews.com/usnews/news/articles/030602/2terror.b.htm In the desert, a secret Jordanian prison for terrorist detainees – US News and World Report<!-- Bot generated title -->]{{dead link|date=October 2014}}</ref> Their mission is to contribute to the safeguarding of the Kingdom under the [[Hashemite]] leadership of the [[King of Jordan]], as well as protecting freedoms and preserving democracy in the country. In practice, the agency is notoriously known for its extensive activity in Jordan and throughout the Middle East, as well as its cooperation with American, British, and Israeli intelligence. Through a complex spying system, it plays a central role in preserving stability in the nation and monitoring seditious activity.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.gid.gov.jo/|title=Gid_Home page|publisher=|accessdate=19 June 2016}}</ref>


== Defense industry ==
== Defense industry ==
{{Main article|King Abdullah Design and Development Bureau}}
{{Main|Jordan Design and Development Bureau}}
[[File:Scimitar upgraded.jpg|thumb|200px|[[FV107 Scimitar]] updated by [[KADDB]] in display at [[SOFEX]] 2006]]
[[File:Scimitar upgraded.jpg|thumb|200px|[[FV107 Scimitar]] updated by [[KADDB]] in display at [[SOFEX]] 2006]]
[[File:Jordanarmyissa.jpg|thumb|200px|Jordanian troops in a [[military parade]] in [[Amman]], June 2007]]
[[File:Jordanarmyissa.jpg|thumb|200px|Jordanian troops in a [[military parade]] in [[Amman]], June 2007]]
Jordan is a recent entrant to the domestic defense industry with the establishment of King Abdullah Design and Development Bureau (KADDB) in 1999. The defense industrial initiative is intended to jumpstart industrialization across a range of sectors. With the Jordanian defense expenditures at 8.7% of GDP, the Jordanian authorities created the defense industry to utilize defense budget spending power and to assist in economic growth without placing additional demands on the national budget. Jordan also hosts [[Special Operations Forces Exhibition|SOFEX]], the world's fastest growing and region's only special operations and homeland security exhibition and conference.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.sofexjordan.com/|title=:: SOFEX :: Home Page|publisher=|accessdate=19 June 2016}}</ref> Jordan is a regional and international provider of advanced military goods and services.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.kaddb-ipark.com/Public/English.aspx?Site_ID=1&Page_ID=843 |title=KADDB Industrial Park|publisher=Kaddb-ipark.com |date=9 October 2009 |accessdate=22 December 2010}}</ref>
Jordan is a recent entrant to the domestic defense industry with the establishment of King Abdullah Design and Development Bureau (now [[Jordan Design and Development Bureau]]) in 1999. The defense industrial initiative is intended to jumpstart industrialization across a range of sectors. With the Jordanian defense expenditures at 8.7% of GDP, the Jordanian authorities created the defense industry to utilize defense budget spending power and to assist in economic growth without placing additional demands on the national budget. Jordan also hosts [[Special Operations Forces Exhibition|SOFEX]], the world's fastest growing and region's only special operations and homeland security exhibition and conference.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.sofexjordan.com/|title=:: SOFEX :: Home Page|access-date=19 June 2016}}</ref> Jordan is a regional and international provider of advanced military goods and services.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.kaddb-ipark.com/Public/English.aspx?Site_ID=1&Page_ID=843 |title=KADDB Industrial Park |publisher=Kaddb-ipark.com |date=9 October 2009 |access-date=22 December 2010 |archive-date=28 April 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110428190442/http://www.kaddb-ipark.com/Public/English.aspx?Site_ID=1&Page_ID=843 |url-status=dead }}</ref>


A KADDB Industrial Park was opened in September 2009 in [[Mafraq]]. It is an integral industrial free zone specialized in defense industries and vehicles and machinery manufacturing. By 2015, the park is expected to provide around 15,000 job opportunities whereas the investment volume is expected to reach JD500 million.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.kaddb-ipark.com/ |title=:: KADDB Industrial Park :: |publisher=Kaddb-ipark.com |accessdate=22 December 2010}}</ref>
A KADDB Industrial Park was opened in September 2009 in [[Mafraq]]. It is an integral industrial free zone specialized in defense industries and vehicles and machinery manufacturing. By 2015, the park is expected to provide around 15,000 job opportunities whereas the investment volume is expected to reach JD500 million.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.kaddb-ipark.com/ |title=:: KADDB Industrial Park :: |publisher=Kaddb-ipark.com |access-date=22 December 2010 |archive-date=7 February 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110207173422/http://kaddb-ipark.com/ |url-status=dead }}</ref>


== Peacekeeping ==
== Peacekeeping ==
The Jordanian Armed Forces has been a strong supporter and participant of [[UN peacekeeping missions]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://en.ammonnews.net/article.aspx?articleNO=10786|title=Gendarmerie Director, UN official discuss cooperation - Jordan News - Ammon News|publisher=|accessdate=19 June 2016}}</ref><ref>[http://www.potc.mil.jo/aboutus_all.shtm Peace Operation Training Center JOR<!-- Bot generated title -->]</ref><ref>[http://www.jordanembassyus.org/060599002.htm] {{wayback|url=http://www.jordanembassyus.org/060599002.htm |date=20090727134300 }}</ref><ref>http://www.jordandirections.com/international/jordan-peacekeeping-personnel-in-darfur-0118-receive-medals-2010 {{Dead link|date=April 2011}}</ref> Jordan ranks among the highest internationally in taking part in UN peacekeeping missions.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.un.org/en/peacekeeping/resources/statistics/contributors.shtml|title=Troop and police contributors. United Nations Peacekeeping|publisher=|accessdate=19 June 2016}}</ref> The size of the Jordanian participation in various areas of the United Nations peacekeeping troops and staff, hospital and international observers, is estimated to be 61,611 officers and men, starting in 1989 in [[Angola]] through the task of military observers and humanitarian security forces.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://en.ammonnews.net/article.aspx?articleNO=6047|title=Jordan’s Peace-Keeping Forces - View Points - Ammon News|publisher=|accessdate=19 June 2016}}</ref> After France and the UK, Jordan was the largest contributor of troops to the UN forces in the former [[Yugoslavia]], sending three battalions, or over three thousand troops, from 1993 to 1996.<ref>al-Hussein, Abdullah II bin. ''Our Last Best Chance: The Pursuit of Peace in a Time of Peril'', New York City: Viking Adult, 2011. ISBN 978-0-670-02171-0 pg 241</ref>
The Jordanian Armed Forces has been a strong supporter and participant of [[UN peacekeeping missions]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://en.ammonnews.net/article.aspx?articleNO=10786|title=Gendarmerie Director, UN official discuss cooperation - Jordan News - Ammon News|date=13 November 2010 |access-date=19 June 2016}}</ref><ref>[http://www.potc.mil.jo/aboutus_all.shtm Peace Operation Training Center JOR<!-- Bot generated title -->] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110722070744/http://www.potc.mil.jo/aboutus_all.shtm |date=2011-07-22 }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |date=June 5, 1999 |title=Jordan ready to send peacekeeping forces to Kosovo - King |newspaper=[[The Jordan Times]] |via=Jordanian Embassy - U.S. |url=http://www.jordanembassyus.org/060599002.htm |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090727134300/http://www.jordanembassyus.org/060599002.htm |archive-date=July 27, 2009 |url-status=dead }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |date=2010-01-18|url=https://en.ammonnews.net/article/5950 |title=Jordan peacekeeping personnel in Darfur receive medals |access-date=2010-11-17 |newspaper=[[Ammon News]] }}</ref> Jordan ranks among the highest internationally in taking part in UN peacekeeping missions.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.un.org/en/peacekeeping/resources/statistics/contributors.shtml|title=Troop and police contributors. United Nations Peacekeeping|access-date=19 June 2016}}</ref> The size of the Jordanian participation in various areas of the United Nations peacekeeping troops and staff, hospital and international observers, is estimated to be 61,611 officers and men, starting in 1989 in [[Angola]] through the task of military observers and humanitarian security forces.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://en.ammonnews.net/article.aspx?articleNO=6047|title=Jordan's Peace-Keeping Forces - View Points - Ammon News|date=21 January 2010 |access-date=19 June 2016}}</ref> After France and the UK, Jordan was the largest contributor of troops to the UN forces in the former [[Yugoslavia]], sending three battalions, or over three thousand troops, from 1993 to 1996.<ref>al-Hussein, Abdullah II bin. ''Our Last Best Chance: The Pursuit of Peace in a Time of Peril'', New York City: Viking Adult, 2011. {{ISBN|978-0-670-02171-0}} pg 241</ref>


At the U.N. Copenhagen summit, Jordan was alone, out of more than 30 developing nations, in unveiling plans to help fight climate change, including upgrading its armed forces by 2020, an area usually overlooked in the global warming debate. The army will seek to upgrade engines and old vehicles and use energy saving technologies.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.alertnet.org/thenews/newsdesk/LDE61H0TH.htm |accessdate=February 18, 2016 |deadurl=yes |archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/20100224092908/http://www.alertnet.org:80/thenews/newsdesk/LDE61H0TH.htm |archivedate=February 24, 2010 }}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://thestar.com.my/news/story.asp?file=/2010/2/19/worldupdates/2010-02-19T162918Z_01_NOOTR_RTRMDNC_0_-463064-1&sec=Worldupdates |accessdate=February 18, 2016 |deadurl=yes |archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/20121015131031/http://thestar.com.my/news/story.asp?file=/2010/2/19/worldupdates/2010-02-19T162918Z_01_NOOTR_RTRMDNC_0_-463064-1&sec=Worldupdates |archivedate=October 15, 2012 }}</ref>
At the U.N. Copenhagen summit, Jordan was alone, out of more than 30 developing nations, in unveiling plans to help fight climate change, including upgrading its armed forces by 2020, an area usually overlooked in the global warming debate. The army will seek to upgrade engines and old vehicles and use energy saving technologies.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.alertnet.org/thenews/newsdesk/LDE61H0TH.htm |access-date=February 18, 2016 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100224092908/http://www.alertnet.org/thenews/newsdesk/LDE61H0TH.htm|title=Jordan enlists army in climate fight |archive-date=February 24, 2010 }}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://thestar.com.my/news/story.asp?file=/2010/2/19/worldupdates/2010-02-19T162918Z_01_NOOTR_RTRMDNC_0_-463064-1&sec=Worldupdates |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100227052650/http://thestar.com.my/news/story.asp?file=%2F2010%2F2%2F19%2Fworldupdates%2F2010-02-19T162918Z_01_NOOTR_RTRMDNC_0_-463064-1&sec=Worldupdates|title=Jordan enlists army in climate fight |url-status=dead |archive-date=February 27, 2010 |access-date=February 18, 2016 }}</ref>


== International assistance ==
== International assistance ==
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[[File:Jordanian M113 armored ambulance.JPEG|thumb|right|A Jordanian [[M113]] armored ambulance is offloaded at [[King Hussein International Airport|King Hussein Airport]], September 1987.]]
[[File:Jordanian M113 armored ambulance.JPEG|thumb|right|A Jordanian [[M113]] armored ambulance is offloaded at [[King Hussein International Airport|King Hussein Airport]], September 1987.]]


In addition to providing domestic and border security for the country, the Jordanian Armed Forces have assumed a prominent regional and international role as a provider of humanitarian assistance and military training.
In addition to providing domestic and border security for the country, the Jordanian Armed Forces have assumed a prominent regional and international role as a provider of humanitarian assistance and military training. The Jordanian Armed Forces recently cooperated with Jordan Hashemite Charity Organization to send humanitarian aid including rescue equipment, tents, logistical support, medical supplies, and food to Syria and Turkey following the [[2023 Turkey–Syria earthquake|2023 Turkey-Syria Earthquake]].<ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-02-08 |title=Jordan sends multiple batches of humanitarian aid for Syria, Turkey relief efforts |url=https://jordantimes.com/news/local/jordan-sends-multiple-batches-humanitarian-aid-syria-turkey-relief-efforts |access-date=2023-03-11 |website=Jordan Times |language=en}}</ref>


=== Medical services ===
=== Medical services ===
Jordan has dispatched several [[field hospital]]s to conflict zones and areas affected by natural disasters across the world such as [[Iraq]], the [[West Bank]], [[Lebanon]], [[Afghanistan]], [[Haiti]], [[Indonesia]], [[Democratic Republic of the Congo|Congo]], [[Liberia]], [[Ethiopia]], [[Eritrea]], [[Sierra Leone]], and [[Pakistan]]. The Kingdom's field hospitals have extended aid to some one million people in the West Bank and 55,000 in Lebanon.<ref>[http://www.jordanembassyus.org/09262007004.htm] {{wayback|url=http://www.jordanembassyus.org/09262007004.htm |date=20081013042008 }}</ref>
Jordan has dispatched several [[field hospital]]s to conflict zones and areas affected by natural disasters across the world such as [[Iraq]], the [[West Bank]], [[Lebanon]], [[Afghanistan]], [[Haiti]], [[Indonesia]], [[Democratic Republic of the Congo|Congo]], [[Liberia]], [[Ethiopia]], [[Eritrea]], [[Sierra Leone]], and [[Pakistan]]. The Kingdom's field hospitals have extended aid to some one million people in the West Bank and 55,000 in Lebanon.<ref>{{cite news |date=September 26, 2007 |title=Jordanian peacekeepers earn country good reputation |newspaper=[[The Jordan Times]] |via=Jordanian Embassy - U.S. |url=http://www.jordanembassyus.org/09262007004.htm |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081013042008/http://www.jordanembassyus.org/09262007004.htm |archive-date=October 13, 2008 }}</ref><ref name='health'>{{cite web|url=http://www.defenselink.mil/news/newsarticle.aspx?id=14978 |title=DefenseLink News Article: Jordanian Military Helps Its Neighbors |publisher=Defenselink.mil |access-date=2010-07-05 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20091130123727/http://www.defenselink.mil/news/newsarticle.aspx?id=14978 |archive-date=2009-11-30 }}</ref>


⚫
On 24 November 2010, another Jordanian military field hospital (Gaza 11) arrived in the coastal territory of [[Gaza Strip|Gaza]] to replace (Gaza 10) whose tour of duty came to an end after treating 44,000 Palestinians and performing 720 minor and major surgeries since its inception in September 2010.<ref>{{cite news |agency=[[Jordan News Agency]] |url=http://www.zawya.com/Story.cfm/sidZAWYA20101125062736/Jordanian+military+field+hospital+arrives+in+Gaza |title=Jordanian military field hospital arrives in Gaza |via=Zawya.com |date=24 November 2010 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110617073652/http://www.zawya.com/Story.cfm/sidZAWYA20101125062736/Jordanian%20military%20field%20hospital%20arrives%20in%20Gaza |archive-date=17 June 2011 }}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://en.ammonnews.net/article.aspx?articleNO=10949|title=Jordanian military field hospital arrives in Gaza - Jordan News - Ammon News|date=24 November 2010 |access-date=19 June 2016}}</ref>
The country has committed nearly 600 health care practitioners to the medical assistance missions in Iraq and Afghanistan. A 50-bed Jordanian [[military hospital]] located in [[Mazar-i-Sharif]], Afghanistan, cares for more than 650 patients a day, providing critical health care for thousands of Afghans who suffered neglect at the hands of the [[Taliban]] regime.<ref name='health'>{{cite web|url=http://www.defenselink.mil/news/newsarticle.aspx?id=14978 |title=DefenseLink News Article: Jordanian Military Helps Its Neighbors |publisher=Defenselink.mil |date= |accessdate=2010-07-05}}</ref> More than 500,000 patients have been treated at the Jordanian military hospital in Afghanistan.<ref name='health' />

In Iraq, a second Jordanian military hospital provides health services to Iraqis and serves as an ad hoc trauma center, treating patients wounded in terrorist attacks and moving them to Jordan or other locations. As of February 2006, more than 4 million people had been treated in Jordan's military hospital in Iraq, and Jordanian military general surgeons had performed 1,638 surgeries.<ref name='health' />

⚫
On 24 Nov 2010, another Jordanian military field hospital (Gaza 11) arrived in the coastal territory of [[Gaza Strip|Gaza]] to replace (Gaza 10) whose tour of duty came to an end after treating 44,000 Palestinians and performing 720 minor and major surgeries since its inception in September 2010.<ref>[http://www.zawya.com/Story.cfm/sidZAWYA20101125062736/Jordanian%20military%20field%20hospital%20arrives%20in%20Gaza Jordanian military field hospital arrives in GazaJordan – Zawya<!-- Bot generated title -->]{{dead link|date=October 2014}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://en.ammonnews.net/article.aspx?articleNO=10949|title=Jordanian military field hospital arrives in Gaza - Jordan News - Ammon News|publisher=|accessdate=19 June 2016}}</ref>


=== Police and military training ===
=== Police and military training ===
⚫
The Jordanians have helped Iraqis by providing them with military and police training as well as donating military and police equipment.<ref name='health' /> The armed forces trained tens of thousands of Iraqi troops and policemen after the [[2003 invasion of Iraq|U.S.-led invasion]].<ref name=mongabay>{{cite web|url=http://www.mongabay.com/history/jordan/jordan-military_cooperation_with_other_arab_states.html|title=Jordan-Military Cooperation with Other Arab States|access-date=19 June 2016}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.dailystar.com.lb/Opinion/Commentary/2012/Jan-04/158756-jordan-watches-post-america-iraq-very-closely.ashx#axzz1iU3WPEkj|title=Jordan watches post-America Iraq very closely|access-date=19 June 2016}}</ref><ref name='health' />


⚫
Jordan has also begun training Libyan policemen as part of a programme to strengthen ties between the countries. The training programme is part of a wider plan to re-integrate 200,000 former rebel fighters into Libyan society.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-middle-east-17841672|title=Jordan begins Libya police training programme|work=BBC News |date=25 April 2012 |access-date=19 June 2016}}</ref>
==== Arabian Peninsula ====
For many years, Jordan has supplied [[Arab States of the Persian Gulf]] with advisers, mostly personnel in reserve status who had completed their active duty. A total of 565 army officers and 1,420 NCOs served in other Arab countries between 1970 and 1984. The loan of military personnel was regarded as a form of compensation to the Arab states in the [[Persian Gulf]] that have provided Jordan with subsidies over the years. Jordan also has acted as a consultant to these countries in matters such as weapons selection and organization of military forces.<ref name=mongabay>{{cite web|url=http://www.mongabay.com/history/jordan/jordan-military_cooperation_with_other_arab_states.html|title=Jordan-Military Cooperation with Other Arab States|publisher=|accessdate=19 June 2016}}</ref>

As of 1988, Jordanian personnel were serving in a training or operational capacity in [[Kuwait]], [[North Yemen]], [[Qatar]], [[Oman]], the [[United Arab Emirates]], and [[Saudi Arabia]]. Many officers from these countries, the majority Saudi Arabs, were undergoing training in Jordan at [[Mutah University]] and the Jordanian Staff College. Between 1970 and 1984, more than 4,000 officers and 7,000 enlisted personnel from Arab states had attended military institutions in Jordan.<ref name=mongabay />

Jordan has also supplied combat troops to assist Persian Gulf states confronting security threats. In 1975 Jordan deployed two squadrons of fighter aircraft and a Special Forces battalion to Oman at that country's request to help defeat an uprising supported by [[South Yemen]].<ref name=mongabay />

==== Other ====
⚫
The Jordanians have helped Iraqis by providing them with military and police training as well as donating military and police equipment.<ref name='health' /> The armed forces trained tens of thousands of Iraqi troops and policemen after the [[2003 invasion of Iraq|U.S.-led invasion]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.dailystar.com.lb/Opinion/Commentary/2012/Jan-04/158756-jordan-watches-post-america-iraq-very-closely.ashx#axzz1iU3WPEkj|title=Jordan watches post-America Iraq very closely|publisher=|accessdate=19 June 2016}}</ref>

Jordanians have donated 250 [[armored personnel carriers]] to the [[Iraqi Ministry of Defense]]. The vehicles consisted of 50 Ukrainian-built [[BTR-94]] armored personnel carriers, 100 [[FV103 Spartan|British Spartans]], and 100 American-made [[M113]]A1 armored personnel carriers. Jordan also donated two C-130B [[Lockheed C-130 Hercules|Hercules transport aircraft]] to the [[Iraqi Air Force]], as well as 16 [[UH-1H]] utility helicopters.<ref name='health' /> Jordanians have helped train [[Iraqi security forces]] by hosting [[Iraqi police]] and border-enforcement training in Jordan. Outside the Jordanian capital of Amman, the first all-female [[Iraqi army]] military police company was formed and trained by female Jordanian military personnel.<ref name='health' /> Royal Jordanian aircrews have trained some Iraqi air force pilots, and Jordanian noncommissioned officers helped train the Iraqi military's NCO corps in various locations in Iraq.<ref name='health' />

⚫
Jordan has also begun training Libyan policemen as part of a programme to strengthen ties between the countries. The training programme is part of a wider plan to re-integrate 200,000 former rebel fighters into Libyan society.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-middle-east-17841672|title=Jordan begins Libya police training programme|publisher=|accessdate=19 June 2016}}</ref>


==Gallery==
==Gallery==
<gallery mode=packed>>
<gallery mode="packed">
File:Eager Lion '15 concludes with monumental military demonstration 150518-A-XL223-008.jpg
File:Eager Lion '15 concludes with monumental military demonstration 150518-A-XL223-008.jpg
File:Snipers conduct live-fire exercise during Exercise Eager Lion 150507-M-QZ288-047.jpg
File:Snipers conduct live-fire exercise during Exercise Eager Lion 150507-M-QZ288-047.jpg
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{{Law enforcement in Jordan}}
{{Law enforcement in Jordan}}
{{Military of Asia}}
{{Military of Asia}}
{{Military of the Arab world}}


[[Category:Jordanian Armed Forces| ]]
[[Category:Military of Jordan|*]]
[[Category:Military of Jordan|*]]
[[Category:Ministry of Defence (Jordan)]]
[[Category:Ministry of Defence (Jordan)]]

Latest revision as of 18:21, 20 May 2024

Jordanian Armed Forces
القوات المسلحة الأردنية
Emblem of the Jordanian Armed Forces
Emblem of the Jordanian Armed Forces
Founded22 October 1920
Current form1 March 1956
Service branches Royal Jordanian Army
 Royal Jordanian Navy
 Royal Jordanian Air Force
HeadquartersAmman
Leadership
Commander-in-chiefField Marshal King Abdullah II
Minister of DefenceBisher Al-Khasawneh
Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of StaffMajor General Yousef Huneiti
Personnel
Military age18–49 years old
Active personnel100,500[1]
Reserve personnel65,000[1]
Expenditure
Budget$2.6 billion
Percent of GDP6.5%
Industry
Domestic suppliersJordan Design and Development Bureau
Foreign suppliers Australia
 Brazil
 Canada
 China
 Czech Republic
 France
 Germany
 India
 Italy
 Japan
 South Korea
 Netherlands
 Poland
 Russia
 South Africa
 Sweden
 Taiwan
 Turkey
 Ukraine
 United Kingdom
 United States
Related articles
HistoryWorld War II (1940–45)
Arab–Israeli War
Retribution operations (1950s)
Six-Day War
War of Attrition (1967–70)
Battle of Karameh (1968)
Black September
Yom Kippur War
Yemeni Civil War (1994)
1999 East Timorese crisis
First Libyan Civil War
International military intervention against ISIL (2014–present)
Saudi-led intervention in Yemen (2015)
RanksJordanian military ranks

The Jordanian Armed Forces (JAF) (Arabic: القوات المسلحة الأردنية, romanized: Al-Quwwat Al-Musallaha Al-Urduniyya), also referred to as the Arab Army (Arabic: الجيش العربي, Al-Jaysh Al-Arabi), are the military forces of the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan. They consist of the ground forces, air force, and navy. They are under the direct control of the King of Jordan who is the Supreme Commander of the Jordanian Armed Forces and acts by recommendation of the Defence Minister. The current Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff is Major General Yousef Huneiti, who is also the King's military adviser.[2]

The first organized army in Jordan was established on 22 October 1920, and was named the "Mobile Force". At the time it only had 150 men in its ranks. On its third anniversary in 1923, the force was renamed the Arab Legion, consisting of 1,000 men. By the time Jordan became an independent state in 1946, the Arab Legion numbered some 8,000 soldiers in 3 mechanized regiments. In 1956, King Hussein dismissed all British generals and changed the name of the Legion into the "Jordanian Arab Army" in what became known as the Arabization of the Jordanian Army command.

The army fought in several wars and battles, mostly against Israel. In the 1948 Arab–Israeli War, the capture of the West Bank by Jordan and the decisive Battles of Latrun, proved that the Arab Legion was the most effective army during the war. Several confrontations followed with Israel, resulting in mixed success; they included the Retribution operations, the Six-Day War, the War of Attrition and Yom Kippur War. Jordan also had to face the PLO and the Syrian Army during the events of Black September. The signing of the Israel–Jordan peace treaty in 1994 ended the state of belligerency between the two countries.[3]

It is today considered to be among the most professional in the region, and is seen as particularly well-trained, organized, and equipped.[4]

History

[edit]
Further information: Royal Jordanian Army § Formation
See also: Arab Legion, Desert Force, Transjordan Frontier Force, and Arabization of the Jordanian Army command
Arab Revolt Tribal Cavalry – Tribes of Jordan and Arabia, c. 1918
Arab army during the Arab revolt of 1916 against the Ottoman Empire formed the nucleus of the Arab Legion.
Commander of the Arab Legion, Glubb Pasha in uniform. Amman, September 11, 1940.

The first organized army in Jordan was established on 22 October 1920, and was named the "Mobile Force", at the time it was 150 man strong under the command of the British Captain Frederick Peake. On its third anniversary, in October 1923, the now-1,000-man force was renamed the Arab Legion.

In 1939, John Bagot Glubb, better known as Glubb Pasha, became the Legion's commander, and continued in office until the dismissal of British officers in March 1956. On 1 April 1926, the Transjordan Frontier Force was formed, consisting of only 150 men and most of them were stationed along Transjordan's roads.

The Arabization of the Jordanian Army command (Arabic: تعريب قيادة الجيش العربي‎, Ta'reeb Qiyadat Al-Jaysh Al-Arabi) saw the dismissal of senior British officers commanding the Arab Legion by King Hussein and the subsequent renaming of the Legion into the Jordanian Armed Forces on 1 March 1956. Glubb Pasha, the Arab Legion's British commander, was replaced with Major General Radi Annab, who became the first Arab commander of the Arab Legion. Hussein's intentions to Arabize the Army command were to replace British officers with Jordanian officers, assert political independence from Britain, and improve relations with neighboring Arab states that viewed the British with suspicion. An annual celebration is held on 1 March in Jordan to mark the historic event.

Timeline of the history and development of the Jordanian Army and the Arab Legion:

1920–1947 Pre-1948 War 1948 War Battles – 1956 Kuwait – 1963
Sammu Battle – 1966 Six-Day War – 1967 1967–1973 After 1977 2000–present

Structure and objectives

[edit]
Main article: Royal Jordanian Army § Current structure of the Jordanian Army
See also: Royal Jordanian Army, Royal Jordanian Air Force, and Royal Jordanian Navy

The army's organisational structure was traditionally based on two armoured divisions and two mechanized divisions. These have been transformed into a lighter, more mobile forces, based largely on a brigade structure and considered better capable of rapid reaction in emergencies. An armoured division has become the core element of a strategic reserve.[5][6]

The main objectives of the Jordanian Armed Forces are:

  1. Protect the Kingdom of Jordan borders from any invasion.
  2. Protect the people inside the Kingdom and their rights.
  3. Protect the King of Jordan.
Royal Jordanian Army Order of Battle (OrBat) 2020

Special Operations Forces

[edit]
Main article: Joint Special Operations Command
Royal Jordanian Air Force F-16 Fighting Falcon aircraft fighter pilots fly over Jordan, 19 October 2009
Special Operation Forces at Shaheed Mwaffaq Air Base showing a KADDB manufactured Desert Iris vehicle, November 2010

Founded on 15 April 1963, on the orders of the late King Hussein, its primary roles include reconnaissance, counter-terrorism, search and evacuation, intelligence gathering combat, and the protection of key sites. King Abdullah II Special Forces Group are also charged with carrying out precision strikes against critical enemy targets. The unit is equipped and trained to be able to operate behind enemy lines for long periods without any logistical support, and is considered one of the finest special forces units in the world.[7][8]

The group is supported by the newly founded Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed (MbZ) Quick Reaction Force (QRF) Brigade which is a brigade-strength forces with high combat readiness, immediate response speed, flexible and highly mobile that are able to operate independently, within Jordanian forces, or with friendly and allied forces to defend Jordanian national security within the borders of the Kingdom of Jordan or Outside in all circumstances at the time and place and in accordance with the orders of the General Command of the Armed Forces.[9][10][11]

Defense industry

[edit]
Main article: Jordan Design and Development Bureau
FV107 Scimitar updated by KADDB in display at SOFEX 2006
Jordanian troops in a military parade in Amman, June 2007

Jordan is a recent entrant to the domestic defense industry with the establishment of King Abdullah Design and Development Bureau (now Jordan Design and Development Bureau) in 1999. The defense industrial initiative is intended to jumpstart industrialization across a range of sectors. With the Jordanian defense expenditures at 8.7% of GDP, the Jordanian authorities created the defense industry to utilize defense budget spending power and to assist in economic growth without placing additional demands on the national budget. Jordan also hosts SOFEX, the world's fastest growing and region's only special operations and homeland security exhibition and conference.[12] Jordan is a regional and international provider of advanced military goods and services.[13]

A KADDB Industrial Park was opened in September 2009 in Mafraq. It is an integral industrial free zone specialized in defense industries and vehicles and machinery manufacturing. By 2015, the park is expected to provide around 15,000 job opportunities whereas the investment volume is expected to reach JD500 million.[14]

Peacekeeping

[edit]

The Jordanian Armed Forces has been a strong supporter and participant of UN peacekeeping missions.[15][16][17][18] Jordan ranks among the highest internationally in taking part in UN peacekeeping missions.[19] The size of the Jordanian participation in various areas of the United Nations peacekeeping troops and staff, hospital and international observers, is estimated to be 61,611 officers and men, starting in 1989 in Angola through the task of military observers and humanitarian security forces.[20] After France and the UK, Jordan was the largest contributor of troops to the UN forces in the former Yugoslavia, sending three battalions, or over three thousand troops, from 1993 to 1996.[21]

At the U.N. Copenhagen summit, Jordan was alone, out of more than 30 developing nations, in unveiling plans to help fight climate change, including upgrading its armed forces by 2020, an area usually overlooked in the global warming debate. The army will seek to upgrade engines and old vehicles and use energy saving technologies.[22][23]

International assistance

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A Jordanian military doctor examines a child in Afghanistan, October 2009.
Hercules C-130H of the Royal Jordanian Air Force taxis for takeoff, July 2006.
A Jordanian M113 armored ambulance is offloaded at King Hussein Airport, September 1987.

In addition to providing domestic and border security for the country, the Jordanian Armed Forces have assumed a prominent regional and international role as a provider of humanitarian assistance and military training. The Jordanian Armed Forces recently cooperated with Jordan Hashemite Charity Organization to send humanitarian aid including rescue equipment, tents, logistical support, medical supplies, and food to Syria and Turkey following the 2023 Turkey-Syria Earthquake.[24]

Medical services

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Jordan has dispatched several field hospitals to conflict zones and areas affected by natural disasters across the world such as Iraq, the West Bank, Lebanon, Afghanistan, Haiti, Indonesia, Congo, Liberia, Ethiopia, Eritrea, Sierra Leone, and Pakistan. The Kingdom's field hospitals have extended aid to some one million people in the West Bank and 55,000 in Lebanon.[25][26]

On 24 November 2010, another Jordanian military field hospital (Gaza 11) arrived in the coastal territory of Gaza to replace (Gaza 10) whose tour of duty came to an end after treating 44,000 Palestinians and performing 720 minor and major surgeries since its inception in September 2010.[27][28]

Police and military training

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The Jordanians have helped Iraqis by providing them with military and police training as well as donating military and police equipment.[26] The armed forces trained tens of thousands of Iraqi troops and policemen after the U.S.-led invasion.[29][30][26]

Jordan has also begun training Libyan policemen as part of a programme to strengthen ties between the countries. The training programme is part of a wider plan to re-integrate 200,000 former rebel fighters into Libyan society.[31]

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References

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  1. ^ a b International Institute for Strategic Studies (25 February 2021). The Military Balance 2021. London: Routledge. p. 347. ISBN 9781032012278.
  2. ^ "Freihat appointed chairman of joint chiefs-of-staff". Jordan Times. 2 October 2016. Retrieved 2 October 2016.
  3. ^ Tucker, Spencer C. (2010). The Encyclopedia of Middle East Wars: The United States in the Persian Gulf. Abc-Clio. ISBN 978-1851099481. Retrieved 10 June 2016 – via Google Books.
  4. ^ "Jordan Armed Forces modernization continues with wide scale issue of new KA2 Digital Camouflage". Hyperstealth.com. Retrieved 10 June 2016.
  5. ^ "Defense & Security Intelligence & Analysis: IHS Jane's". Archived from the original on 27 January 2013. Retrieved 19 June 2016.
  6. ^ "echoesfromjordan.com Resources and Information". Archived from the original on 25 August 2016. Retrieved 19 June 2016.
  7. ^ Lang, Hardin; Wechsler, William; Awadallah, Alia. "The Future of U.S.–Jordanian Counterterrorism Cooperation". Center for American Progress.
  8. ^ Bender, Jeremy (4 February 2015). "Jordan's special forces are some of the best in the Middle East". Business Insider. Retrieved 27 April 2016.
  9. ^ Hardin Lang; William Wechsler; Alia Awadallah (30 November 2017). "The Future of U.S.–Jordanian Counterterrorism Cooperation". Center for American Progress. Retrieved 25 May 2018.
  10. ^ "Rapid intervention brigade named after Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed". Jordan Times. 21 November 2018.
  11. ^ "Janes | Latest defence and security news". Janes.com. Archived from the original on 18 May 2020. Retrieved 1 November 2020.
  12. ^ ":: SOFEX :: Home Page". Retrieved 19 June 2016.
  13. ^ "KADDB Industrial Park". Kaddb-ipark.com. 9 October 2009. Archived from the original on 28 April 2011. Retrieved 22 December 2010.
  14. ^ ":: KADDB Industrial Park ::". Kaddb-ipark.com. Archived from the original on 7 February 2011. Retrieved 22 December 2010.
  15. ^ "Gendarmerie Director, UN official discuss cooperation - Jordan News - Ammon News". 13 November 2010. Retrieved 19 June 2016.
  16. ^ Peace Operation Training Center JOR Archived 2011-07-22 at the Wayback Machine
  17. ^ "Jordan ready to send peacekeeping forces to Kosovo - King". The Jordan Times. 5 June 1999. Archived from the original on 27 July 2009 – via Jordanian Embassy - U.S.
  18. ^ "Jordan peacekeeping personnel in Darfur receive medals". Ammon News. 18 January 2010. Retrieved 17 November 2010.
  19. ^ "Troop and police contributors. United Nations Peacekeeping". Retrieved 19 June 2016.
  20. ^ "Jordan's Peace-Keeping Forces - View Points - Ammon News". 21 January 2010. Retrieved 19 June 2016.
  21. ^ al-Hussein, Abdullah II bin. Our Last Best Chance: The Pursuit of Peace in a Time of Peril, New York City: Viking Adult, 2011. ISBN 978-0-670-02171-0 pg 241
  22. ^ "Jordan enlists army in climate fight". Archived from the original on 24 February 2010. Retrieved 18 February 2016.
  23. ^ "Jordan enlists army in climate fight". Archived from the original on 27 February 2010. Retrieved 18 February 2016.
  24. ^ "Jordan sends multiple batches of humanitarian aid for Syria, Turkey relief efforts". Jordan Times. 8 February 2023. Retrieved 11 March 2023.
  25. ^ "Jordanian peacekeepers earn country good reputation". The Jordan Times. 26 September 2007. Archived from the original on 13 October 2008 – via Jordanian Embassy - U.S.
  26. ^ a b c "DefenseLink News Article: Jordanian Military Helps Its Neighbors". Defenselink.mil. Archived from the original on 30 November 2009. Retrieved 5 July 2010.
  27. ^ "Jordanian military field hospital arrives in Gaza". Jordan News Agency. 24 November 2010. Archived from the original on 17 June 2011 – via Zawya.com.
  28. ^ "Jordanian military field hospital arrives in Gaza - Jordan News - Ammon News". 24 November 2010. Retrieved 19 June 2016.
  29. ^ "Jordan-Military Cooperation with Other Arab States". Retrieved 19 June 2016.
  30. ^ "Jordan watches post-America Iraq very closely". Retrieved 19 June 2016.
  31. ^ "Jordan begins Libya police training programme". BBC News. 25 April 2012. Retrieved 19 June 2016.
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