Exercise Eager Lion 2026: U.S.-Jordan Joint Military Drill at Fort Carson, Colorado

Key Facts

• Exercise Eager Lion is a biennial joint military drill between the U.S. and Jordan.
• The 2026 edition is the 12th iteration, conducted at Fort Carson, Colorado.
• More than 200 military personnel from Jordan and the United States take part.
• The exercise includes scenarios on counterterrorism, air defense, maritime security, cyber operations, and disaster response.
• The Colorado-Jordan State Partnership Program began in 2004, facilitating military cooperation and exchanges.
• Admiral Brad Cooper is commander of U.S. Central Command, under whose purview the exercise is conducted.

Background & Context

Exercise Eager Lion started as a U.S.-Jordan military collaboration aimed at enhancing bilateral military readiness and interoperability. Traditionally held in Jordan, the 2026 exercise is the first hosted by the United States, reflecting deepening military ties. The drill builds on the State Partnership Program between Colorado and Jordan established in 2004, which fosters long-term defense relationships through joint training and exchanges involving state National Guard units and the Jordanian Armed Forces.

Why This Matters for Exams

Eager Lion exemplifies international military diplomacy and cooperation, important topics in geopolitical and defense studies sections. Understanding such exercises highlights U.S. strategic partnerships in the Middle East, joint readiness initiatives, and counterterrorism collaboration efforts. These themes are frequently tested in exams covering current affairs, international relations, and security studies.

Points to Remember

• Eager Lion is a biennial exercise between the United States and Jordan.
• The 2026 exercise was the 12th edition, held in Colorado for the first time.
• Over 200 personnel participated, including members from Colorado and Illinois National Guards.
• The exercise covers multiple domains: counterterrorism, air defense, maritime security, cyber operations, and disaster response.
• The Colorado-Jordan State Partnership Program began in 2004.

Practice MCQs

Question 1

1. Which edition of Exercise Eager Lion was held in 2026?
2. 10th
3. 11th
4. 12th
5. 13th

Answer: 12th

Question 2

1. Where was Exercise Eager Lion conducted in 2026?
2. Amman, Jordan
3. Fort Carson, Colorado
4. Denver, Colorado
5. Washington D.C.

Answer: Fort Carson, Colorado

Question 3

1. When was the Colorado-Jordan State Partnership Program established?
2. 1993
3. 2004
4. 2010
5. 2015

Answer: 2004