The Jordanian Central Command (Arabic: المنطقة العسكرية الوسطى) is the regional command of the Jordanian Armed Forces tasked with overseeing the primary front against Israel.
History
The Central Command was established as part of a significant army reorganization in 1977. Its units were transferred from the former 4th Mechanized Division, which was disbanded. Presently, the command's units are stationed from the Zarqa River, north of as-Salt, to the Dead Sea, safeguarding Jordan's border with Israel.[1] In 2000, King Abdullah II initiated further restructuring of the Jordanian Armed Forces, transforming the remaining divisions into lighter, more mobile forces. These forces adopted a primarily brigade-based structure, enhancing their ability to respond rapidly to emergencies.[2][3]
The former 4th Mechanised Division was positioned westward, covering the sector from the Dead Sea to the Zarqa River north of Salt. The Jordan Valley, acting as the natural boundary between the two countries along this sector, features a rugged, winding terrain. Additionally, the line of hills to the east of the valley offers a natural defensive position for Jordanian forces.[1][4]
Jordanian forces have strategically avoided deploying in the Jordan Valley itself, where they could be susceptible to Israeli air power and artillery. Instead, they occupy positions on the heights above the valley, strategically positioned to impede any enemy advancement along the routes leading to the central plateau and major cities. Several surfaced roads ascend to the top of the escarpment, situated approximately 800 to 1,200 meters above the valley floor. However, a well-entrenched force could effectively deter any enemy attempt to advance along these routes, albeit at significant cost.[4]
In 2018, two armored brigades (40th and 60th) and several other units were transferred from the deactivated 3rd Armored Division to the Central Command.
Organisation
The Central Command oversees regional units spanning from the Dead Sea to the Zarqa River north of Salt, Jordan. Currently, Brigadier General Adnan Ahmed Al-Raqqad serves as the head of the Central Command.
