SEALs off the coast Aqaba

The Jordanian Gun Boats kept the waters safe while Navy SEALs boarded the ship. Once on deck they’re smooth movement disguised the rapidity of their attack. Three attack helicopters hovered overhead as the assault team made their way toward the wheelhouse making sure every nook and cranny was covered. Hour’s earlier Red Sea pirates had hijacked the ship in hopes of garnishing ransom for hostages but in a matter of minutes it will all be over.

It might sound like another classified rescue mission is occurring in the Middle East but this time it was only training. Concerned over the possible overflow of violence from Syria. Jordanian and Iraqi Special Forces joined U.S. Navy SEALs in a series of mock attacks and rescues. Joint exercises are nothing new to special operations and as the war in Afghanistan winds down it will more than likely be an increasing role for SOF operators.

However these war games aren’t limited to special operations alone. “Eager Lion 2013 is a great opportunity to share experience and boost capabilities,” said Brigadier General Gregg P. Olson, Deputy Commander, U.S. Marine Forces Central Command. General Olson was referring to the ongoing multinational exercise between America and 19 other countries. But what some might call annual interoperability training others may be more inclined to label it a dress rehearsal for possible military intervention in Syria. Eager Lion will wrap up by weeks end but there’s no telling when the situation in Syria will calm down enough to allow American some time to relax.

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