US chopper crashes during Jordan exercises

AMMAN, May 26 (Reuters) A US military helicopter crashed during joint training with the Jordanian army, injuring two pilots on board, a security source said today.

''The helicopter crash took place in the last 24 hours during joint exercises in the eastern desert area,'' said the source, adding the condition of the two American pilots was stable but declining to give any further details.

Other government officials were not available for comment.

The pro-Western kingdom is a staunch US ally in the region and lends covert logistical help to the American military effort in Iraq, its eastern neighbour.

Amman has in recent years received increased US military aid, including training and modern equipment for its army.

Reuters PY RN1835