Japan: The joint air defence exercise between the Indian Air Force (IAF) and the Japan Air Self Defence Force (JASDF), referred to as Exercise’ Veer Guardian 2023′, came to an end on January 26 in Japan. The objective of the exercise was to foster friendly relations between the IAF and the JASDF and to strengthen air defence collaboration between the two air forces.
The Indian Air Force (IAF) has been stationed at Japan’s Hyakuri Air Base since January 12 with a team of four Su-30 MKI fighters, two C-17 Globemaster Strategic Airlift Transport aircraft, and one IL-78 Flight Refueling Aircraft. The Japanese side engaged in the exercise with four Mitsubishi F-2s and four F-15 combat jets.
The 16-day joint exercise included extensive aerial maneuvers across various simulated operational scenarios. Aimed at exchanging best practices, Exercise Veer Guardian featured multi-domain air combat missions in challenging environments. Additionally, experts participated in discussions to share different operational aspects.
The Veers who Guard the skies over Japan & India gaining familiarity with each other & their steeds. @JASDF_PAO_ENG @JASDF_PAOย @jasdf_hyakuri pic.twitter.com/k9dH68lQfO
— Indian Air Force (@IAF_MCC) January 22, 2023
The Indian Air Force and the Japan Air Self-Defense Force participated in an air combat exercise that focused on interception and air defence operations. The Indian Ministry of Defence noted that the exercise required the two air forces to demonstrate precise planning and skilful execution. Additionally, both Visual and Beyond Visual Range air defence missions were conducted.
The aircrews from both forces flew missions in each other’s aircraft to gain a greater understanding of their flying and operational styles. General Shunji Izutsu of the JASDF had an opportunity to experience the Indian Air Force’s Su-30 MKI, and Air Marshal PM Sinha of the Western Air Command was introduced to Japan’s F2 ‘Viper Zero’ fighter.
The second 2+2 Foreign and Defence Ministerial meeting, held in Tokyo on 8 September 2022, enabled the Indian Air Force (IAF) and the Japanese Air Self-Defense Force (JASDF) to benefit from increased mutual understanding and deeper operational expertise through ‘Veer Guardian 2023’.
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