Amid deepening military cooperation between India and Japan, the air forces of both nations are currently engaged in a joint air exercise at the Jodhpur airbase. The second phase of the India-Japan air exercise 'Veer Guardian' commenced on September 9 and is scheduled to run through September 22. As part of this deployment, three Japanese F-2A fighter jets have arrived in Jodhpur to train alongside the Indian Air Force's Sukhoi-30MKI fighter jets across various aerial maneuvers. Pilots from both nations are actively training in air-to-air combat, dogfighting, and other complex tactical air missions.
The training schedule encompasses advanced techniques including night operations and mid-air refueling procedures. The primary objective of the exercise is to enhance operational coordination and mutual capabilities between the two air forces. A special emphasis has been placed on air-maritime operations linked to the Indo-Pacific region. The Japanese F-2A fighter jet was originally developed based on the design of the American F-16, but Japan incorporated numerous critical modifications tailored to its specific strategic and technical requirements.
Maritime Security and Strategic Significance
The F-2A is uniquely specialized in maritime security and long-range missions, lending significant geostrategic importance to this exercise regarding the security of the Indo-Pacific region. Through 'Veer Guardian', the Indian Air Force is gaining valuable exposure to Japan's advanced radar systems, electronic warfare, and aerial combat operations. Simultaneously, pilots from both countries are deepening their understanding of each other's operational procedures and combat capabilities. Given the presence of F-16 fighter jets within Pakistan's military inventory, the joint training between the F-2A and the Indian Sukhoi-30MKI is also considered highly strategic.
Previous Edition and Bilateral Ties
The inaugural phase of the India-Japan 'Veer Guardian' exercise was held in Japan in January 2023. During that inaugural iteration, Indian Air Force Sukhoi-30MKI jets trained alongside Japan's F-2 and F-15 fighter aircraft. The staging of the second phase in India is expected to further strengthen mutual understanding, technological cooperation, and joint operational capabilities between the two air forces. Amid evolving security dynamics across the Indo-Pacific, such joint military drills play a vital role in consolidating the strategic partnership between India and Japan, with the current exercise in Jodhpur marking another significant step forward.
