Japan and India conduct joint Veer Guardian 2026 military exercises

Japan Air Self-Defense Force (ASDF) F-2 fighter jets have arrived in India to participate in the Veer Guardian 2026 joint military exercise. Running from September 9 to 22, the maneuvers are being held at the Jodhpur airbase.

This deployment marks a significant milestone in defense cooperation between Japan and India. The exercise aims to enhance interoperability, tactical synergy, and mutual knowledge of weapon systems in the Indo-Pacific region. Japanese pilots will operate alongside Indian aircraft, including Rafale, Su-30MKI, and LCA Tejas fighters.

Japanese Defense Minister Shinjiro Koizumi stated that the deployment symbolizes the deepening of defense ties between the two nations. Officials noted that sending combat aircraft to like-minded countries serves as a deterrent and demonstrates the depth of these strategic relationships.