Veer Guardian 2026 has concluded at Jodhpur after 14 days of joint air training between the Indian Air Force and Japan Air Self-Defense Force. The exercise, which ended September 22, was designed to enhance interoperability, strengthen operational coordination and deepen professional interaction between the two services. India participated with Su-30MKI, Rafale and indigenous Tejas fighters, while Japan deployed its Mitsubishi F-2A multirole fighter. The aircraft conducted a range of advanced flying missions, including within-visual-range engagements and coordinated multi-aircraft sorties. These missions demanded close communication, coordinated planning and tactical execution, giving personnel from both countries practical exposure to their respective procedures and operational philosophies. General Takehiro Morita, Chief of Staff of the JASDF, and Air Chief Marshal A.P. Singh attended Distinguished Visitor’s Day and both flew the Tejas aircraft. The exercise extended beyond flying operations through specialist exchanges covering tactics, operational concepts, maintenance and technical practices. Mission-planning sessions examined contemporary air warfare and joint operations, while engineering teams discussed aircraft support systems, maintenance and sustainment. Maintenance personnel also compared procedures and readiness requirements, and safety briefings addressed flight safety, risk management and operational protocols. Veer Guardian 2026 was the second bilateral fighter exercise between India and Japan, following the inaugural edition at Hyakuri Air Base in January 2023. Bringing Japanese F-2A fighters to India for the 2026 exercise further expanded the scope of bilateral air cooperation. The participation of Tejas alongside Rafale and Su-30MKI also provided a varied training environment for Japanese crews. The exercise complements the broader India-Japan defence relationship and other bilateral engagements, including Dharma Guardian and JIMEX, covering the Army and Navy as well as the Air Force.
