A crew chief of a CH-53 Super Stallion helicopter with Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 261 (Reinforced), 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit prepares the fuel hose of the tactical bulk fuel delivery system May 9, 2012 to prepare for Exercise Eager Lion 12. The tactical bulk fuel delivery system is a large fuel bladder installed inside the hull of the helicopter, increasing the range and flexibility of tactical bulk refueling. During Eager Lion 12, the 24th MEU will participate in a variety of training exercises with partnered nations at different locations throughout the country to increase interoperability and learn about other countries' militaries. Eager Lion 12 is a recurring, multinational exercise designed to strengthen military-to-military relationships through a joint, whole-of-government approach to future complex national security challenges. The 24th MEU, partnered with the Iwo Jima Amphibious Ready Group, is currently deployed to the U.S. Central Command area of operations as a theater-reserve and crisis-response force capable of a variety of missions from full-scale combat operations to humanitarian assistance and disaster relief.