The 7th edition of the India–Japan Joint Military Exercise ‘Dharma Guardian’ has commenced at the Foreign Training Node in Chaubattia, Uttarakhand. The exercise will be conducted from 24 February to 9 March 2026.

The annual drill is held between the Indian Army and the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force (JGSDF), reinforcing defence cooperation between the two countries.

Participation and Contingents

Each side has deployed a 120-member contingent for this edition.

• The JGSDF contingent is represented by troops from the 32nd Infantry Regiment.
• The Indian Army contingent is drawn from the Ladakh Scouts.

The exercise is conducted alternately in India and Japan, reflecting the deepening strategic partnership between the two nations.

Aim of the Exercise

The primary objective of Exercise ‘Dharma Guardian’ is to:

• Strengthen military collaboration
• Enhance interoperability
• Improve combined operational capabilities
• Conduct joint operations in semi-urban environments

The drill focuses on modern military technologies, joint planning, and synchronised tactical operations.

Key Tactical Activities

During the two-week exercise, troops will undertake:

• Establishment of a Temporary Operating Base
• Development of an Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR) grid
• Setting up Mobile Vehicle Check Posts
• Cordon and Search Operations in hostile environments
• Heliborne Operations
• House Intervention Drills

The exercise aims to achieve high physical fitness standards and refine joint combat readiness in realistic scenarios.

Strategic Significance

‘Dharma Guardian’ remains a key pillar of India–Japan defence ties. The exercise enhances mutual trust, operational synergy, and readiness to respond to regional security challenges.

MCQs: Exercise Dharma Guardian 2026

Q1. The 7th edition of Exercise ‘Dharma Guardian’ is being conducted between India and:
(a) United States
(b) Australia
(c) Japan
(d) South Korea
(e) France

Ans: (c)
Sol: The exercise is conducted between India and Japan.

Q2. Exercise ‘Dharma Guardian’ 2026 is being held at:
(a) Dehradun
(b) Leh
(c) Chaubattia
(d) Ranikhet
(e) Srinagar

Ans: (c)
Sol: The exercise is being held at the Foreign Training Node, Chaubattia, Uttarakhand.

Q3. The Indian Army contingent in the exercise is drawn from:
(a) Rajput Regiment
(b) Sikh Regiment
(c) Gorkha Rifles
(d) Ladakh Scouts
(e) Jat Regiment

Ans: (d)
Sol: The Indian contingent is drawn from the Ladakh Scouts.

Q4. The exercise is scheduled from:
(a) 20 February to 5 March 2026
(b) 24 February to 9 March 2026
(c) 25 February to 10 March 2026
(d) 1 March to 15 March 2026
(e) 5 March to 20 March 2026

Ans: (b)
Sol: The exercise runs from 24 February to 9 March 2026.

Q5. Which of the following is one of the key tactical activities in the exercise?
(a) Naval submarine operations
(b) Space surveillance drills
(c) Cordon and Search Operations
(d) Cyber hacking simulation
(e) Missile test firing

Ans: (c)
Sol: Cordon and Search Operations are among the tactical drills conducted.