Jordan receives American Black Hawk helicopters to secure borders

Jordan on Sunday marked the delivery of 12 Black Hawk helicopters from the United States with a military ceremony, including a flyover and hostage rescue drill.

The helicopters, delivered between March and December 2017, are meant to help secure Jordan's borders from external threats, including from Islamic State militants.

Jordan, which borders former IS strongholds in neighbouring Syria and Iraq, has been a key ally in the US-led campaign.

The ceremony at a Jordanian military base was attended by Gen. Joseph Votel, commander of the US Central Command.

The Royal Jordanian Air Force and its Quick Reaction Force showcased the Black Hawks in a drill showing the rescue of a wounded hostage.

Germany moved troops from Turkey to Jordan last year, after Turkey restricted access to the soldiers, including visits by parliamentarians.

An average of 280 German troops has been stationed at the Azraq air base in northern Jordan since October.

Germany carries out reconnaissance and refuelling missions over Syria and Iraq, where IS once held large areas.