US prepares arms deal for Jordan

Missiles designed to shoot down jet fighters and others to beat back ground attacks are in an American arms package for Jordan awaiting President Reagan's approval, according to United States officials. The administration is already preparing to defend the purchases in Congress. Critics are expected to argue for delay until Jordan opens peace talks with Israel.

But proponents contend that Jordan needs the mobile Hawks and hand-held Stingers to defend against Syria, which opposes peace moves by Jordan's King Hussein.