New Delhi, September 10 (Daily Kiran) : The Indian Ministry of Defense announced on September 10 that Japanese Air Self-Defense Force (JASDF) fighter jets have arrived in India for the first time as part of ‘Exercise Veer Guardian 2026.’ This significant event symbolizes the deepening defense collaboration between India and Japan.
In a post on social media platform X, the ministry highlighted, “A crucial milestone in the India-Japan defense partnership! The arrival of JASDF fighter aircraft marks the second joint exercise involving both nations’ fighter jets. Previously, during ‘Veer Guardian 23’ in 2023, Indian Air Force (IAF) fighter jets visited Japan for the first time.”
The ministry emphasized that the mutual deployment of fighter aircraft is a vital step in enhancing defense cooperation. This exercise aims to improve interoperability, facilitate strategic exchanges, and enhance operational skills through joint activities, thereby strengthening long-term collaboration and stability in the Indo-Pacific region.
Earlier in the day, Defense Minister Rajnath Singh welcomed the historic visit of the JASDF F-2 jets, describing it as a significant milestone in bilateral defense relations. He noted that exchanges such as ‘Exercise Veer Guardian’ further solidify the partnership between the two countries.
On X, Singh remarked, “A pivotal moment for the India-Japan defense partnership! The arrival of JASDF fighter aircraft in India reflects our growing trust and shared commitment to peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific. This collaboration is further strengthened following our meaningful discussions in New Delhi last month.”
‘Exercise Veer Guardian 2026’ is scheduled from September 9 to 22 in Jodhpur, involving the Indian Air Force alongside the JASDF. The IAF will participate with several frontline combat aircraft, including the indigenous Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas, Sukhoi-30 MKI, and Rafale.
During this 14-day exercise, participating air warriors will conduct advanced operational missions and engage in extensive professional discussions. The Ministry of Defense reported that the program will include mission planning conferences, exchanges of subject matter experts, and discussions on engineering and aerospace safety, fostering deeper operational synergy between the two air forces.
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