Jordan has asked the US government to deploy Patriot air defense systems in Amman amid rising tensions in the region.
The request comes as a growing number of Middle Eastern nations are bolstering their investments in defense after the surprise attack on Israel by Palestinian militant group Hamas.
Jordan reportedly fears that the ongoing conflict could escalate and Jerusalem’s missiles might accidentally land on Jordanian soil.
“We asked the American side to help bolster our defense system with Patriot,” Jordanian Army spokesperson Brigadier General Mustafa Hiyari said on state television.
If the US approves the request, it will not be the first time that the Patriot will be deployed in the kingdom. In 2013, the air defense system was stationed there following an uprising in neighboring Syria.
‘Most Advanced US Air Defense System’
The Patriot (short for Phased Array Tracking Radar for Intercept on Target) is a long-range, all-altitude air defense system capable of countering tactical ballistic missiles, cruise missiles, and advanced aircraft.
It is touted as the most advanced US air defense system in service with armed forces from Germany, Israel, South Korea, Taiwan, and other US allies.
The latest variant, the PAC-3, uses advanced hit-to-kill technology for more accurate and powerful strikes.
It also has a state-of-the-art target acquisition system that allows the missile to acquire targets in the terminal phase of flight.
Increased Presence in the Middle East
Before Jordan made the request, the US had already deployed military assets in the Middle East in response to growing regional threats.
Last week, it integrated additional F-16 Fighting Falcons into the US Central Command’s area of responsibility to enhance the US posture in averting “further aggression.”
Washington has also sent two aircraft carriers and air defense systems to defend US military troops in the region.
Additional American troops have also been told to be ready for a possible deployment to the Middle East.