The bilateral air exercise 'Veer Guardian 2026' between the Indian Air Force (IAF) and Japan Air Self Defense Force (JASDF) concluded at Air Force Station Jodhpur on September 22, 2026. The 14-day joint training exercise served as a platform for enhancing interoperability and strengthening the strategic partnership between the two air forces. The IAF deployed a mix of aircraft including Su-30 MKI, Rafale, and indigenous Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas, while JASDF participated with F-2A fighter aircraft.
During the exercise, both air forces engaged in a wide range of advanced flying missions encompassing within visual range combat and coordinated multi-aircraft missions. The exercise included numerous ground interactions such as Subject Matter Expert Exchanges, operational discussions, mission planning conferences, engineering interactions, maintenance practice, and aerospace safety briefings. These interactions enabled both contingents to gain insight into each other's best practices and learn from unique capabilities.
On Distinguished Visitor's Day, General Takehiro Morita, Chief of Staff of JASDF, and Air Chief Marshal AP Singh, Chief of the Air Staff of IAF, visited Air Force Station Jodhpur and both flew the indigenous Tejas fighter aircraft. The exercise concluded as a testament to the enduring friendship and professional camaraderie between the two air forces, paving the way for enhanced collaboration and strategic depth in the defence partnership between India and Japan.