Indian and Japanese Air Chiefs Experience Tejas Fighter Jet in Joint Exercises

Jodhpur, September 20 (Daily Kiran) : General Takehiro Morita of the Japan Air Self-Defense Force and Air Chief Marshal A.P. Singh of the Indian Air Force took to the skies in India’s indigenous Tejas fighter jet on September 20. The flight took place at Jodhpur Air Force Station, marking a significant moment in the defense collaboration between the two nations.

During the event, Air Chief Marshal A.P. Singh flew solo in the Tejas, while General Morita also experienced the aircraft firsthand. This flight symbolizes the strengthening defense and air cooperation between India and Japan, coinciding with the ongoing joint air exercise, ‘Veer Guardian 2026.’

The exercise, which runs until September 22, has seen both air forces testing their combat capabilities in simulated war-like conditions. In this phase, Indian and Japanese fighter jets have engaged in various airstrike drills.

The participation of the Japanese Air Self-Defense Force’s fighter jets in this exercise is particularly noteworthy, as it marks their first involvement in joint training on Indian soil. Alongside the Tejas, India’s frontline aircraft, including the Sukhoi-30 MKI and Rafale, are also part of the drills, while Japan is contributing its F-2A fighter jets.

The exercises aim to enhance operational synergy, mutual understanding, and coordination during joint missions between the two air forces. The Tejas’s flight during this exercise highlights India’s indigenous aerial capabilities, showcasing the nation’s advancements in defense technology.

Thus far, both air forces have completed various air operations and operational activities, gaining insights into each other’s operational procedures and combat tactics. Developing better coordination during joint missions remains a critical focus of ‘Veer Guardian 2026.’ The presence of the two air chiefs underscores the significance of this collaboration, providing both nations with a valuable opportunity to evaluate their capabilities in real combat scenarios and learn from each other’s experiences.