Why in News?
The Indian Air Force (IAF) and Japan Air Self-Defense Force (JASDF) are conducting the bilateral air exercise Veer Guardian-2026 at Air Force Station Jodhpur from 9 to 22 September 2026. The exercise aims to enhance tactical proficiency, operational coordination and aerospace cooperation between the two air forces.
About Exercise Veer Guardian-2026
The IAF is participating with a diverse fleet of frontline combat aircraft, including the indigenous Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas, Su-30MKI and Rafale fighter aircraft. The JASDF is participating with its F-2A fighter aircraft.
The fourteen-day exercise includes advanced operational missions, mission-planning conferences, subject-matter expert exchanges and professional interactions between personnel of the two air forces.
The exercise also focuses on aircraft engineering, aerospace safety and operational practices, thereby promoting greater interoperability and sharing of expertise between India and Japan.
Exercise Veer Guardian-2026 reflects the deepening strategic partnership between India and Japan and strengthens defence cooperation, tactical interoperability and mutual understanding between their armed forces.
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