Indo-Japan forces launch joint aerial combat drills in Jodhpur
Indian Air Force officials welcomed Japanese F-2 fighter jets at the Jodhpur Air Force Station on Tuesday, marking the official launch of Exercise Veer Guardian 2026. This intensive 14-day bilateral training event runs from September 9 to September 22, 2026. Two Japanese C-2 transport aircraft safely touched down earlier to deliver the foreign contingent for this highly anticipated second edition of the joint air drills.
Both nations have steadily expanded their military cooperation over recent years to build a stronger defence posture across the Indo-Pacific region. This growing alliance reflects a shared commitment to regional stability and secure airspace.
Frontline Combat Aircraft Take Flight
India brings a highly advanced fleet to the skies over Rajasthan. Indian pilots will fly the indigenous Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas, alongside heavy-duty Su-30 MKI and modern Rafale jets. On the other side, the Japan Air Self-Defense Force deployed three F-2A fighter aircraft from its 8th Air Wing, originally stationed at Tsuiki Air Base. Approximately 110 Japanese personnel travelled to Jodhpur for these complex combat simulations.
Deepening Military Ties and Safety Protocols
Air warriors from both sides will share vital aerospace safety protocols and engineering tactics throughout the next two weeks. Mission planning conferences and subject matter expert exchanges will happen directly alongside the daily flying missions. Defence officials emphasized that these combined operations significantly improve tactical skills and build smooth operational teamwork between the two militaries.
Working together on advanced operational missions allows both air forces to understand each other's combat strategies better. This continuous engagement reinforces long-standing strategic ties, upgrades technical interoperability, and builds essential mutual trust in the military domain.
IAF and JASDF Pilots for Joint Exercise Veer Guardian 2026
With Inputs from Agency Threads and Photo Courtesy: ANI
