Introduction
Veer Guardian is a bilateral air exercise conducted between the Indian Air Force (IAF) and the Japan Air Self-Defense Force (JASDF). It aims to enhance interoperability, strengthen operational coordination and deepen defence cooperation between the two air forces.
The exercise forms an important component of the India–Japan Special Strategic and Global Partnership and supports their shared vision of a Free and Open Indo-Pacific (FOIP).
Background
- The first edition of Exercise Veer Guardian was held in January 2023 at Hyakuri Air Base and Iruma Air Base, Japan.
- It was the first-ever bilateral fighter aircraft exercise between the Indian Air Force and the Japan Air Self-Defense Force.
- The exercise complements other India–Japan defence engagements such as Dharma Guardian, JIMEX, the 2+2 Ministerial Dialogue and the Defence Policy Dialogue.
Objectives
- Enhance interoperability between the two air forces.
- Improve coordination in complex air combat operations.
- Exchange operational knowledge and best practices.
- Strengthen mutual trust and defence cooperation.
- Promote regional peace and security in the Indo-Pacific.
Key Features
- Bilateral exercise between the Indian Air Force (IAF) and the Japan Air Self-Defense Force (JASDF).
- Conducted alternately by mutual agreement.
- Focuses on advanced air combat operations and tactical interoperability.
- Involves fighter aircraft, transport aircraft and support elements.
Major Areas of Training
- Air combat manoeuvres.
- Beyond Visual Range (BVR) engagements.
- Offensive and defensive counter-air missions.
- Air interception and escort missions.
- Tactical formation flying.
- Joint mission planning.
- Airspace management.
- Logistics and operational support.
Significance
Strengthening Air Force Cooperation
Enhances military-to-military engagement and operational compatibility between the IAF and JASDF.
Indo-Pacific Security
Supports a Free and Open Indo-Pacific by improving collective readiness and regional stability.
Operational Interoperability
Develops common operational procedures, communication protocols and mission planning capabilities for future joint operations.
Strategic Partnership
Deepens the defence pillar of the India–Japan Special Strategic and Global Partnership alongside bilateral army and naval exercises.
Capacity Building
Facilitates the exchange of operational experience, advanced tactics and professional expertise between the two air forces.
Recent Developments
- The 2nd edition of Exercise Veer Guardian was held from 17–26 January 2025 at Hyakuri Air Base, Japan.
- The exercise featured:
- Multi-domain air operations.
- Fighter combat missions.
- Tactical air manoeuvres.
- Air defence operations.
- Exchange of operational best practices.
- The exercise reinforced interoperability and reflected the growing defence cooperation between India and Japan.
Way Forward
- Conduct the exercise on a regular basis with greater operational complexity.
- Expand cooperation in air defence, space and cyber domains.
- Promote collaboration in aerospace technology and defence manufacturing.
- Enhance information sharing and joint training in emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence and unmanned aerial systems.
- Strengthen coordination with other bilateral and multilateral Indo-Pacific security initiatives.
Conclusion
Exercise Veer Guardian has become a significant pillar of India–Japan air force cooperation. By improving interoperability, operational readiness and strategic trust, it strengthens the India–Japan Special Strategic and Global Partnership and contributes to a secure, stable and rules-based Indo-Pacific region.
