India and Japan Launch 2-Week Military Exercise 'Dharma Guardian'

India and Japan initiated a two-week military drill on Sunday at Rajasthan's Mahajan field firing range, aimed at bolstering collaboration in addressing mutual security challenges.

Dubbed 'Dharma Guardian,' the exercise involves the Indian Army and the Japan Ground Self Defence Force, conducted within the overarching framework of India-Japan strategic cooperation, according to officials.

This annual exercise alternates between India and Japan, with each side contributing a contingent of 40 personnel. The Japanese contingent comprises troops from the 34th Infantry Regiment, while the Indian Army is represented by a battalion from the Rajputana Rifles.

The primary objective is to enhance military cooperation and capabilities for joint operations, focusing on physical fitness, joint planning, tactical drills, and fundamental special arms skills, as outlined by the Indian Army.

Tactical drills practised during the exercise include establishing a temporary operating base, creating an intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance grid, setting up mobile vehicle check posts, executing cordon and search operations in a hostile village, and heliborne operations, as detailed in the Army's statement.

An exhibition showcasing the 'Atmanirbhar Bharat' initiative and the country's growing defence industrial capability will accompany the event.

Lt. Gen. Togashi Yuichi, the Commanding General of the Eastern Army, Japan Ground Self Defence Force, is expected to visit India during the exercise.

The 'Dharma Guardian' exercise aims to facilitate the exchange of best practices in tactics, techniques, and procedures for conducting tactical operations, fostering interoperability, camaraderie, and enhancing defence cooperation between the two friendly nations, according to the Army.