Japan Dispatches Fighter Jets to India for First Time for Joint Exercise Veer Guardian
2 sources across 2 countries · India · Japan
Who reported this
- Hindustan Times
- Asahi Shimbun
What the colours mean
- Left
- Centre-left
- Centre
- Centre-right
- Right
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The Japan Air Self-Defense Force (JASDF) has dispatched three F-2 fighter jets to India for the first time to participate in the joint combat exercise Veer Guardian 2026. The aircraft departed Naha Base in Okinawa on September 6 and traveled approximately 10,000 kilometers via Thailand to reach India. The bilateral drills will take place at Air Force Station Jodhpur and are scheduled to continue until September 22. The Indian Air Force will utilize a mix of aircraft including the indigenous Light Combat Aircraft Tejas, Su-30 MKI, and Rafale.
Japanese Defense Minister Shinjiro Koizumi described the deployment as a symbol of the deepening defense cooperation between Japan and India. Indian Defense Minister Rajnath Singh called the visit a significant milestone that reflects growing trust and a shared commitment to peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific. During the fourteen day exercise, air warriors will engage in advanced operational missions and professional interactions to improve interoperability and skills.
Reporting on the event differs in focus based on political lean. A center-left source frames the deployment as part of a broader strategic trend of Japan increasing visible defense ties with like-minded nations in response to changes in the international situation, citing similar recent exchanges with Europe and Canada. A center-right source frames the event as a milestone of bilateral trust and synergy, emphasizing the strategic partnership and the specific capabilities of the participating aircraft.
How each side framed it
- Centre-left
- Framed the event as part of a wider pattern of Japan strengthening visible military ties with global allies due to shifting international security dynamics.
- Centre-right
- Framed the event as a significant milestone in the bilateral relationship between India and Japan, emphasizing mutual trust and Indo-Pacific stability.
Sources
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