Exercise Veer Guardian 2026 Begins in Jodhpur

This is the second edition of Exercise Veer Guardian 2026 which is an air exercise that is conducted jointly by the Indian Air Force (IAF) and Japan Air Self-Defense Force (JASDF). It will be held between September 9th and September 22nd, 2026 at the Air Force Station Jodhpur. The exercise seeks to build interoperability, synergy, and mutual understanding between the two air forces. The Japanese forces have already arrived in India with two C-2 transport aircraft from JASDF having landed at the Jodhpur airport.

What Is Exercise Veer Guardian 2026?

Exercise Veer Guardian is an air exercise that is performed by India and Japan on a bilateral level. This edition enables the personnel from both the Indian Air Force and Japanese Air Self-Defense Force to interact and learn about each other’s operation methods.

The exercise is going to be held for two weeks at Air Force Station Jodhpur, where both the air forces will come together for training.

Arrival of Japanese Contingent in Jodhpur

The arrival of the Japanese contingent is an important step taken before the exercise training commences.

Two C-2 transport aircraft of the JASDF touched down at Air Force Station Jodhpur, carrying the Japanese contingent and all the requirements needed for the bilateral exercise.

Important Areas of Emphasis of the Exercise

Interoperability

• One of the important aims of Veer Guardian 2026 is to achieve interoperability between the IAF and JASDF. Today’s air operations necessitate effective coordination between forces and information sharing in partnership with other nations.
• Joint training can help personnel get acquainted with each other’s operating methods.

Synergy of Operations

• The exercise will also emphasize achieving synergy in operations. Joint training will help the participating forces get to know how their capabilities and procedures can work with each other.
• Professional exchanges through the exercise will help the personnel gain insights into the operating experience of their counterparts.

Mutual Understanding

• In addition to being a joint military exercise, Veer Guardian aims to build professional ties between Indian and Japanese personnel. Frequent interaction builds familiarity at the professional level.