India–Japan joint military exercise ‘Dharma Guardian’ commenced in Uttarakhand

India–Japan joint military exercise ‘Dharma Guardian’ commenced in Uttarakhand

¨     India–Japan joint military exercise ‘Dharma Guardian’ commenced in Uttarakhand.

¨     On 24 February, the 7th edition of the Indian Army and the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force (JGSDF) Joint Military Exercise ‘Dharma Guardian’ was commenced at the Foreign Training Node in Chaubattia, Uttarakhand.

¨     The exercise is scheduled to be conducted from 24 February to 9 March 2026 to strengthen bilateral defence cooperation.

¨     A 120-member contingent from each side has been deployed for the joint training programme.

¨     The Japanese side is represented by troops from the 32nd Infantry Regiment of the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force, while the Indian contingent is drawn from the Ladakh Scouts.

¨     The exercise continues to be held alternately in India and Japan and remains a key pillar of military cooperation between the two countries.

¨   The primary objective is to enhance joint capabilities for operations in a semi-urban environment.

¨  Participating troops will focus on physical fitness, joint planning procedures and synchronisation of tactical drills.

¨     The exercise is anchored on the use of modern technology to improve interoperability and operational readiness.

¨     Major tactical activities include establishing a Temporary Operating Base and developing an Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance grid.

¨     Additional drills such as Mobile Vehicle Check Posts, Cordon and Search Operations, Heliborne Operations and House Intervention exercises will also be undertaken.