The Veer Guardian 2026 air exercise, recently held between India and Japan and concluding on September 22, is a sign of significant progress in the defense relations of these two countries. This exercise is seen as an important step in enhancing bilateral cooperation, compared to previous times when the cooperation between the two countries was mainly limited to the coast guard level.
A Milestone in Military Cooperation
The current version of the Veer Guardian exercise is the second in this series, with the first held at Hyakuri Air Base in Japan in January 2023. At the second meeting of the foreign and defense ministers of India and Japan held in Tokyo in September 2022, the two countries agreed to strengthen bilateral defense cooperation and participate in more military exercises.
Read more: The election of Fatima Al-Zahra Al-Mansouri as the first female Prime Minister of Morocco
Air Chief Marshal A. P. Singh of the Indian Air Force stated: "The Sanskrit phrase 'Apatsu Mitram' means friendship in times of need. I believe the spirit of this phrase is reflected in the relationship between the Indian Air Force and the Kōkūjitai [Japan Air Self-Defense Force]." He added: "This is a partnership based on mutual respect, professional trust, and a shared commitment to peace and stability."
Operations of Japanese Fighters on Indian Soil
The Veer Guardian 2026 exercise is considered a historic milestone in bilateral military interactions, as it marks the first time Japanese fighters operate directly from Indian soil. The Indian Air Force Chief remarked: "This exercise, especially because Japanese fighters are operating from Indian soil for the first time, is a milestone in the history of our relations and our partnership."
Singh also referred to the evolution of cooperation between the air forces of the two countries, stating: "We have progressed from Shinyuu Maitri to Veer Guardian and from expert exchanges to tactical-level exercises in a complex environment." He continued: "I am confident that this will enhance the capabilities of both sides."
The Indian Air Force Chief also referred to the solidarity between the two air forces as 'Kizuna' and stated: "This is a bond or connection that is strengthened through shared experiences, mutual respect, and joint operations."
On Sunday, Air Marshal A. P. Singh and General Takiro Morita, Chief of Staff of the Japan Air Self-Defense Force, took off from Jodhpur Air Base in Tejas aircraft during the Veer Guardian 2026 exercise. The Indian Air Force is participating in this exercise with advanced fighters including the indigenous Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas, Su-30MKI, and Rafale, while the Japan Air Self-Defense Force is present with its F-2A fighters in this exercise.
Read more: The absence of the Democratic Party of Italy in the vote on the anti-Semitism bill · The visit of the Australian Energy Minister to India and Saudi Arabia to strengthen energy security
