Japanese fighter aircraft took off from Indian soil this week. Here’s why it matters

The Indian Air Force (IAF) and Japanese Air Self-Defence Forces (JASDF) recently collaborated on the Veer Guardian air exercise at the Air Force Station in Jodhpur. This marked the first time Japanese fighter aircraft participated in such an exercise with India. The two-week event, held between September 9 and 22, aimed to enhance interoperability between the two air forces by providing opportunities for joint training in various scenarios, including mission planning, operational sorties, and air combat manoeuvring.

Additionally, Veer Guardian facilitated the exchange of best practices and built familiarity among personnel, fostering common operating practices and coordination during complex air operations. The exercise underscores the strategic partnership between India and Japan, as both nations share concerns about securing critical waterways in the Indian Ocean.

Enhanced interoperability between the forces can help mitigate capability gaps and improve overall effectiveness, particularly in a region as strategically significant as the Indo-Pacific.