At a time of exceptional regional and international sensitivity, the high royal message directed to the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff emerged as an extraordinary strategic document, surpassing traditional military guidance and laying the groundwork for a new phase in the development of the Jordanian Armed Forces - the Arab Army. This new phase is characterized by comprehensive structural transformation and a conscious shift from the logic of "sufficient force" to "flexible smart power capable of deterring and adapting."
The message conveys deep implications, firstly asserting that Jordanian national security can no longer be measured merely by the security of borders, but rather by the state's ability to interpret geopolitical and technological shifts and preempt their effects. The clear reference to current and future threats, evolving operational environments, and hybrid and unconventional warfare reflects a strategic understanding that the nature of contemporary conflict is no longer linear or traditional, but multi-dimensional, involving geographical, cybernetic, weaponry, data integration, and perception complexities.
The message reveals a clear shift from partial modernization to comprehensive restructuring, whether at the organizational level, combat doctrines, or command and control systems. Discussion of "agile, flexible, and distinctive" forces does not imply a reduction in numbers as much as it enhances efficiency, operational impact, and the building of units capable of rapid deployment, decentralized decision-making, and joint action among the branches, according to a simple yet profound and applicable doctrine in contemporary warfare conditions.
One of the most important transformations envisioned by the message is the redefinition of the concept of military superiority. Superiority is no longer dependent on numerical or armament equivalence but on excellence in specific qualitative fields, primarily including defensive and offensive cyber operations, the use of unmanned systems, artificial intelligence, and networking between sensors and execution units. This orientation aligns the Arab Army with modern armies that invest in "smart superiority" as a strategic choice for medium-resource states in complex security environments.
The message also reflects a deep understanding of the concept of "centers of gravity" in modern military thought, whether these centers are strategic or operational. Emphasizing their protection and building a secure and reliable command, control, and communications system signifies a shift from traditional defense to defense based on continuity, flexibility, and the ability to operate under pressure, jamming, and cyber threats, which are essential elements of modern warfare.
The message further highlights an important integrative dimension in managing the national security system, by calling for the optimal employment of border guard units, gendarmerie, and special police within mobilization plans. This approach reflects an advanced understanding of comprehensive security where the roles of military and security institutions are integrated within a single planning framework, ensuring optimal resource use and enhancing readiness in emergencies and complex crises.
On the sustainability front, the message emphasizes the central importance of the logistics support system and reserve forces, as critical elements in prolonged conflicts. The capacity for sustainability, securing supply lines, and resource management at various levels is no longer just an administrative matter but a cornerstone of operational success.
The direction to redirect the role of the Jordanian Center for Design and Development holds far-reaching strategic implications, placing national defense industries at the heart of the security and sovereignty equation. Building an advanced defense research, development, and manufacturing base not only enhances self-sufficiency but also creates economic added value, transforming security from a cost into an investment, and from consumption into knowledge and technology production.
No less important is the institutional and administrative dimension contained in the message, through the call to restructure investment funds and companies affiliated with the armed forces according to the highest governance standards. This approach aligns with best global practices in defense resource management and enhances transparency, efficiency, and financial sustainability, serving the strategic goal without burdening the military institution with unnecessary loads.
Hence, the royal message cannot merely be read as military or administrative guidance, but as a declaration of a comprehensive national vision for repositioning the Arab Army in the regional and international security equation. A vision that underscores that Jordan, despite challenges, chooses to invest in people, intellect, and technology, and believes that true strength lies in readiness, flexibility, sound judgment, and the ability to adapt to a rapidly changing world.
It is a message that lays the foundation for the army of the future, without disconnecting from its legacy and values, affirming that modernization is not a departure from the fundamentals, but a mature expression of loyalty to them, protecting Jordan, safeguarding its security, and enhancing its status in a merciless environment.
