India and Japan Conduct Joint Air Exercise 'Veer Guardian-2026'

Indian Air Chief Marshal Amar Preet Singh and General Takehiro Morita, Chief of Staff of the Japan Air Self-Defense Force (JASDF), attended the opening of the bilateral air exercise 'Veer Guardian-2026' at Air Force Station Jodhpur on Sunday. This significant event marks the first joint exercise involving frontline fighter aircraft from both nations.

The Indian Air Force (IAF) is showcasing a diverse array of its combat capabilities, including the indigenous Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas, Su-30MKI, and Rafale fighter jets. The Japanese side is participating with its F-2A fighter aircraft.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh previously highlighted the importance of this exercise, referring to the arrival of Japanese fighter jets in India as a “significant milestone” in the defence relationship between India and Japan. Singh emphasised that the participation of the JASDF exemplifies a growing trust and commitment to peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region.

On September 8, the IAF welcomed the F-2 fighters from Japan for the bilateral exercise. The IAF's media coordination centre remarked that the drills would enhance interoperability and operational skills, thereby elevating the Indo-Japan defence partnership to new heights. In a recent post on social media platform X, the IAF stated, “The skies over Jodhpur are set for high-octane aerial action as the IAF welcomes F-2s of JASDF for Ex Veer Guardian.”

'Veer Guardian-2026' will continue until September 22, 2026, during which participants will execute advanced operational missions and engage in extensive professional dialogue, aiming to enhance strategic cooperation between the two air forces. The collaborative nature of this exercise reflects the deepening ties and shared objectives of India and Japan in regional security matters. This joint initiative is expected to foster further military collaboration and expedite the exchange of operational practices.

The event is part of a broader shift towards increased military engagement in the Indo-Pacific, where both nations are aligning strategies amid regional security challenges. As defence partnerships evolve, exercises like 'Veer Guardian-2026' play a crucial role in building a resilient and proactive defence framework in the region.

The Ministry of Defence has indicated that there will be a focus on improving operational compatibility and understanding between the two air forces through this collaborative venture.