The Indian Air Force (IAF) and the Japan Air Self-Defense Force (JASDF) will conduct their bilateral air exercise Veer Guardian-2026 at Air Force Station Jodhpur from September 9 to 22, 2026.
The Indian Air Force will participate with a diverse fleet of frontline combat aircraft, including the indigenous Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas, Su-30MKI and Rafale fighters. The JASDF will field its F-2A fighter aircraft for the exercise.
The 14-day exercise will focus on enhancing operational capabilities and strengthening interoperability between the two air forces. Participating air warriors will undertake advanced operational missions and engage in extensive professional exchanges covering a range of operational and technical subjects.
The exercise will feature mission planning conferences, subject matter expert exchanges, and interactions between personnel on engineering practices and aerospace safety. These activities are aimed at promoting the exchange of operational knowledge and developing greater understanding between the two forces.
Veer Guardian-2026 underscores the growing strategic partnership between India and Japan and provides an important platform for enhancing tactical proficiency, operational coordination and aerospace cooperation.
The exercise also reinforces the longstanding ties of friendship and strategic cooperation between the two countries and their commitment to strengthening bilateral defence engagement.
