Archive · 25 Sep 2026
Japanese and Indian Air Forces Deepen Cooperation Through Veer Guardian
India and Japan held a two-week air exercise called Veer Guardian.
It took place at an air base in Jodhpur from September 9 to 22.
Japanese Mitsubishi F-2A fighter aircraft flew from Indian soil for the first time during this type of exercise.
The pilots practiced planning missions and flying together.
They also practiced air combat manoeuvring.
The exercise helped the two air forces learn how to communicate and work together.
This is called interoperability.
India and Japan are strengthening defence ties because they share concerns about security and important sea routes in the Indo-Pacific.
Their cooperation includes air, land, and naval exercises.
India and Japan held the second Veer Guardian air exercise from September 9 to 22 at Air Force Station Jodhpur.
Japan deployed Mitsubishi F-2A fighter aircraft to India for the first time for such an exercise.
The drills included joint mission planning, operational sorties, and air combat manoeuvring.
The exercise aimed to improve interoperability through shared procedures, personnel exchanges, and coordinated operations.
The exercise reflects broader India-Japan security cooperation and shared interest in a free and open Indo-Pacific amid China’s growing regional activity.
- Who
- The Indian Air Force and Japan Air Self-Defense Force, including their senior leaders and personnel.
- What
- They conducted the second bilateral Veer Guardian air exercise, including joint planning, operational sorties, and air combat manoeuvring.
- When
- September 9 to 22; the exercise was described as occurring earlier this month.
- Where
- Air Force Station Jodhpur, India.
- Why
- To improve interoperability, strengthen the two countries’ strategic partnership, and support cooperation related to Indo-Pacific security.
- Exercise
- Veer Guardian
- Participants
- Indian Air Force and Japan Air Self-Defense Force
- Dates
- September 9–22
- Location
- Air Force Station Jodhpur
- Notable first
- Japanese Mitsubishi F-2A fighters were deployed to India for the first time for such an exercise.
- Training areas
- Joint mission planning, operational sorties, and air combat manoeuvring
- Broader cooperation
- India-Japan defence exercises also include Dharma Guardian on land and JIMEX at sea.