Packaging jars inside jar

Question

Can we pack jars inside a jar ?

If so, how can we execute this in Unix ?

I am able to pack everything in a zip, but not able to execute this without unpacking.

Is there any way I can avoid unpacking the zip ?

Thanks in advance.

Answer 1

Jars inside a jar is (part of) what a WAR (web-archive) file could have, because a WAR-file can contain anything needed to make a website. There is no difference in the file-format though: both use ZIP-format, with just a different file-naming convention. For more information:

• Java war vs. jar - what is the difference?
• Overview of WAR Files in Java EE Software Development
• How do I create a war file using the jar command? (tutorial)