The United States and Israel have concluded a several day-long command post simulation and training exercise called Juniper Falcon 11, part of a series of routinely conducted training exercises between the United States and Israel that build partnership and promote regional peace and stability.
The exercise is part of a long-standing agreement between the United States and Israel to hold bilateral training exercises on a regular basis. Commanders and participants from both militaries expressed their satisfaction with the exercise, which allowed for each of the militaries to mutually learn from the other and improve their interoperability.
IDF Chief of the General Staff, Lt. Gen. Gabi Ashkenazi, said, "I see great progress in all matters of cooperation between us and the American armed forces and EUCOM. This is an important part of our ability to operate in different scenarios at sea, on the ground and in the air. It emphasizes the deep, intimate relations between us and the United States when facing mutual enemies, such as when fighting terror.”
U.S. Exercise Director, Maj. Gen. Craig Gourley, said, "I have had the opportunity in the past couple of years to participate in quite a few exercises and this definitely ranks at the top of my experiences. We've met 100 percent of our objectives and through the great experiences and trust we have developed in the past couple of days, we were able to make this a truly outstanding exercise and gain good experiences for the future.
“We have seen great camaraderie, dedication, pride, and commitment on behalf of the Israeli forces - it's outstanding. We're looking forward to coming back."
IDF Exercise Director, Brig. Gen. Nizan Nuriel, said: "The real purpose of this exercise is to make sure that in real time, if necessary, we will be well-trained and fully prepared. We know it's about friendship and brotherhood, and these kinds of exercises can create this level of relationship that in real time may be needed. This has been the most organized of such exercises until now.”