New Delhi, Sep 8. The Indian Air Force (IAF) and Japan Air Self-Defence Force (JASDF) will conduct their bilateral air exercise, Veer Guardian-2026, at Air Force Station Jodhpur from September 9 to 22, in a move aimed at further strengthening operational cooperation and interoperability between the two air forces.
The 14-day exercise will see the IAF deploy a mix of frontline fighter aircraft, including the indigenous Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas, Su-30MKI and Rafale. The JASDF will participate with its F-2A fighter aircraft.
The participating air warriors will undertake advanced operational missions during the exercise, alongside a series of professional interactions designed to facilitate the exchange of operational knowledge and best practices.
The exercise programme will include mission-planning conferences, subject matter expert exchanges and interactions between technical personnel on engineering and aerospace safety issues. These engagements are expected to enhance mutual understanding of operational procedures and contribute to greater coordination between the two air forces.
The exercise comes amid a steady expansion of India-Japan defence and security cooperation, particularly in the Indo-Pacific. Regular military exercises between the two countries have emerged as an important mechanism for improving interoperability and strengthening the strategic dimension of their bilateral partnership.
Veer Guardian-2026 is expected to provide both sides an opportunity to hone tactical skills in a realistic operational environment while deepening cooperation in aerospace operations.
The Ministry of Defence said the exercise reflects the deepening strategic partnership between India and Japan and would contribute to enhanced tactical proficiency and greater operational synergy between their air forces. It also reaffirmed the longstanding defence ties and strategic cooperation between the two countries.
