South Front
Click to see full-size image. Source: the Israeli Air Force.
On July 14, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) and the United States Air Forces Central Command (AFCENT) concluded a joint air drill, the third this year.
In a statement, the IDF says the drill, dubbed Juniper Oak, is “part of the cooperation and close relations with the U.S., even at this time.”
The drill, which began on July 10, included Israeli and American fighter jets carrying out “long-range strategic strike missions in areas with simulated multiple threats, electronic warfare and area defense against hostile aircraft infiltration,” according to the IDF’s statement.
In addition, Israeli fighter jets refueled during the drill from American Boeing KC-10 and KC-46 tankers. This capability would be necessary to conduct potential large-scale strikes against targets located in Iran, some 2,000 kilometers away from Israel.
AFCENT is responsible for air operations in the U.S. Central Command 20-nation area of responsibility in Southwest Asia. Additionally, the command manages an extensive supply and equipment prepositioning program at several Area of Responsibility sites.
“The U.S. Air Force and Israel share an ironclad partnership built on mutual trust and cooperation,” said Lieutenant General Alexus Grynkewich, Air Forces Central commander and Combined Forces Air Component Commander for U.S. Central Command, said in a statement released when the drill started. “Juniper Oak is a testament to the enduring commitment between our nations and reinforces our shared dedication to safeguarding mutual interests and promoting peace and stability in the region.”
The IDF said in its statement that the third installment of Juniper Oak serves as preparation for a major upcoming drill, dubbed Blue Flag.
The recent increase in joint Israeli-U.S. drills will likely lead to more tensions with Iran and its allies in the Middle East. However, a confrontation remains unlikely. Washington may be attempting to mount more pressure on Tehran over the nuclear talks.
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