Juniper Oak 23 is “the most important exercise between the United States and Israel to date,” the official added, citing the large number of aircraft, extensive coordination with the Israel Defense Forces and the sophisticated live-fire component. The source said the exercises are not focused on any particular country, but that the United States’ regional adversaries will pay attention.
Some 6,400 Pentagon troops have joined 1,100 Israeli troops for the exercise, which will involve 142 aircraft. Of these, 100 aircraft belong to the US military, including four B-52 bombers, four F-35 fighters, 45 F/A-18 Hornet fighters and two MQ-9 Reaper drones. Six US ships, including a carrier strike group, and six Israeli ships will also take part in the drills.
According to Gen. Michael Curill, commander of US Central Command, Juniper Oak is an all-areas combined joint exercise that enhances interoperability on land, air, sea, space, and cyberspace with US partners, increases the ability to respond to unforeseen circumstances and emphasizes Washington’s commitment. commitment to the Middle East.
Unlike many military exercises, this one is comprehensive, meaning it includes naval, ground, air, space, and electronic warfare exercises. It culminates in a live-fire exercise that will consume around 82 tons of munitions, simulating enemy air defense suppression, strategic aerial bombardment, and electronic attack. The United States will use four HIMARS rocket launchers, laser-guided bombs, and stealthy cruise missiles without a payload. Planning for an exercise of this magnitude typically takes a year or more, but the official said it happened in a matter of months.
