US, Israel conclude four-day Juniper Falcon exercise

Simulation tests the level of coordination between the two countries in the event of future conflicts.

By YAAKOV KATZ
idf soldiers 311 (photo credit: ASSOCIATED PRESS)
idf soldiers 311
(photo credit: ASSOCIATED PRESS)
In face of growing threats in the Middle East, the IDF and United States Military concluded a four-day-long simulation exercise called Juniper Falcon on Friday which tested the level of coordination between the two countries in the event of future conflicts.
The exercise is part of a long standing agreement between the US and Israel to hold bilateral training exercises on a regular basis and the IDF Spokesman’s Office stressed that it was not associated with a particular threat or world event.
“This is an important part of our ability to operate in different scenarios at sea, on the ground and in the air,” IDF Chief of General Staff Lt.-Gen. Gabi Ashkenazi said during a visit to the base where the exercise was held. “It emphasizes the deep, intimate relations between us and the United States when facing mutual enemies, such as when fighting terror. I get the impression that officers from both sides feel these improvements and that we have interoperable capabilities,” he added.
The Israeli team was headed by Brig.-Gen. (res.) Nizan Nuriel, who also serves as head of the National Security Council’s Counter-Terrorism Bureau. The American side was led by Maj.-Gen. Craig Gourley, who serves as an assistant to the commander of the US Air Force in Europe.
“The real purpose of this exercise is to make sure that in real time, if necessary, we will be well trained and fully prepared,” Nuriel said. “We know it’s about friendship, brotherhood and these kinds of exercises can create this level of relationship that in real time may be needed.”