Japan and India launch Exercise Veer Guardian 2026 in Jodhpur

The Indian Air Force and the Japan Air Self-Defense Force (JASDF) have commenced Exercise Veer Guardian 2026 at the Jodhpur Air Force Station in Rajasthan. Running from September 9 to September 22, 2026, this second iteration of the bilateral air-combat drill follows the inaugural edition held in Japan in 2023.

This year's exercise features the unprecedented deployment of Japanese Mitsubishi F-2A multi-role fighters to an Indian air base. The Japanese contingent includes approximately 110 personnel from the 8th Air Wing, supported by JASDF Kawasaki C-2 transport aircraft that have already arrived in Jodhpur.

The joint training is designed to enhance interoperability, operational synergy, and mutual understanding between the two nations' aviators. The deployment of the F-2A, which shares design characteristics with the American F-16, provides specific tactical value for the Indian Air Force in strengthening its defense partnership with Japan.