NEW DELHI: Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has hailed the growing defense cooperation between India and Japan, describing the arrival of Japanese fighter aircraft for the bilateral combat exercise Veer Guardian 2026 as a "significant milestone".

Taking to social media, Singh emphasized that the historic maiden visit of the Japan Air Self-Defence Force (JASDF) fighter jets to Indian soil underscores the deep mutual trust and shared vision of both nations for peace, security, and stability in the Indo-Pacific region. He noted that this development builds closely upon the highly productive bilateral discussions he held with his Japanese counterpart in New Delhi.

The fourteen-day joint air defense exercise officially commenced at the Air Force Station in Jodhpur, Rajasthan, and is slated to run through September 22. The engagement marks a crucial step in strengthening tactical proficiency, mutual understanding, and operational interoperability between the two militaries.

For the exercises, the Indian Air Force (IAF) has deployed a diverse mix of frontline combat aircraft, including indigenous Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas, Su-30MKIs, and Rafale jets. Meanwhile, the JASDF contingent is participating with its advanced F-2A fighter aircraft alongside transport assets and roughly 110 personnel.

Throughout the two-week drill, participating air warriors from both nations will engage in advanced tactical maneuvers, complex operational scenarios, and extensive professional exchanges to cement a tighter defense synergy.