British Army Enhances Training with Jordanian Forces Amid Evolving Warfare

The British Army's Exercise Olive Grove has been a pivotal training event for the 1st Battalion, The Princess of Wales's Royal Regiment (1PWRR), taking place annually in Jordan. This year, approximately 70 soldiers from C-Company and B-Company are participating in a 10-day exercise at Camp Al-Qwayrah, where they face the challenging desert terrain. Private Daniel Reynolds, a new recruit, described the experience as "hard work," emphasizing the demanding conditions of the exercise.

Drones in the desert: How the British Army is training for the wars of tomorrow

The exercise focuses on refining military tactics in light of modern warfare, particularly the integration of Uncrewed Aerial Systems (UAS) and Electronic Dismounted Situational Awareness (EDSA). Major Ross Weir, Officer Commanding C-Company, noted that while the fundamentals of warfighting remain unchanged, the incorporation of drones has transformed tactical approaches. Commanders now utilize compact screens to receive live updates from the battlefield, allowing for better coordination and reduced casualties. "We're now integrating new technology to make us more lethal," stated Major Weir.

Drones in the desert: How the British Army is training for the wars of tomorrow

Exercise Olive Grove also serves to enhance military cooperation between the British Army and the Jordanian armed forces, particularly the 15th Khalid bin Al-Walid Battalion of the King Hussein Brigade. Lieutenant Colonel Alex Cherry, Commanding Officer of 1PWRR, highlighted the importance of this collaboration, which has developed significantly over the past 18 months. Major Ahmed from the Jordanian battalion expressed admiration for the British Army, stating, "I think the British Army is one of the best in the world and we learn a lot from them."

Drones in the desert: How the British Army is training for the wars of tomorrow

The training conducted during Exercise Olive Grove is particularly relevant as it prepares British forces for the complexities of contemporary conflicts, such as the ongoing war in Ukraine. The rapid evolution of technology in warfare necessitates continuous adaptation and training to ensure effectiveness in future engagements. The British Army's commitment to maintaining military ties with Jordan dates back over a century, reinforcing stability in a region characterized by volatility.

Drones in the desert: How the British Army is training for the wars of tomorrow

The British Army's focus on integrating advanced technology into training reflects a broader strategy to adapt to the changing landscape of warfare. Major Weir emphasized the need for regular updates in technology to maintain combat readiness, stating, "Training can make the Army fit enough to fight, but only regularly updated technology can keep it sharp enough to win."

Drones in the desert: How the British Army is training for the wars of tomorrow

• "The terrain's been challenging." — Private Daniel Reynolds, British Army

Drones in the desert: How the British Army is training for the wars of tomorrow

• "I've been really heartened by the close cooperation between us and the King Hussein Brigade." — Lieutenant Colonel Alex Cherry, Commanding Officer, 1PWRR

Drones in the desert: How the British Army is training for the wars of tomorrow

• "I think the British Army is one of the best in the world and we learn a lot from them." — Major Ahmed, 15th Khalid bin Al-Walid Battalion

Drones in the desert: How the British Army is training for the wars of tomorrow

As the British Army continues to evolve its training methodologies through exercises like Olive Grove, the integration of technology and international cooperation remains crucial in preparing for the complexities of future warfare.

Drones in the desert: How the British Army is training for the wars of tomorrow