Jodhpur : The Indian Air Force (IAF) and the Japan Air Self-Defense Force (JASDF) have begun the second edition of the bilateral air exercise ‘Veer Guardian 2026’ at Air Force Station Jodhpur in Rajasthan.
The exercise, being conducted from September 9 to 22, features Japan’s F-2A fighter aircraft and a diverse mix of Indian frontline combat aircraft, including the indigenous LCA Tejas, Su-30MKI and Rafale. (Press Information Bureau)
The high-intensity training aims to enhance interoperability, tactical proficiency, operational synergy and mutual understanding between the two air forces. The programme includes advanced operational missions, mission-planning conferences, professional exchanges and interactions between personnel involved in engineering and aerospace safety. (Press Information Bureau)
The 2026 edition is particularly significant as Japanese fighter aircraft are operating from an Indian air base for the first time in a bilateral exercise. Japan is participating with three F-2As from its 8th Air Wing at Tsuiki Air Base, along with around 110 personnel. (The Times of India)
The inaugural Veer Guardian exercise was held in Japan in January 2023, when the IAF participated with Su-30MKI fighters, while the JASDF deployed F-2 and F-15 fighters. The two sides conducted tactical training, including air-combat manoeuvring, interception and air-defence exercises. (Ministry of Defense Japan)
The latest exercise reflects the growing India-Japan defence partnership and provides both air forces an opportunity to train together, exchange operational expertise and sharpen their capabilities in complex aerial scenarios. It also marks a further step towards deeper aerospace operational cooperation and strategic convergence between New Delhi and Tokyo. (Press Information Bureau)