India and Japan Commence 5th Edition of Joint Military Exercise ‘Dharma Guardian’

Rajasthan: The 5th edition of the annual Joint Military Exercise ‘Dharma Guardian’ between the Indian Army and the Japan Ground Self Defence Force kicked off today at Mahajan Field Firing Ranges in Rajasthan. The exercise, scheduled from February 25th to March 9th, 2024, marks another milestone in the strategic collaboration between the two nations.

The bilateral exercise, conducted alternately in India and Japan, involves a contingent of 40 personnel from each side. The Japanese contingent hails from the 34th Infantry Regiment, while the Indian Army contingent is represented by a battalion from the Rajputana Rifles.

The primary objective of ‘DHARMA GUARDIAN’ is to strengthen military cooperation and enhance combined capabilities for executing joint operations in semi-urban environments under Chapter VII of the United Nations Charter. Emphasizing a high degree of physical fitness, joint planning, tactical drills, and fundamental special arms skills, the exercise aims to foster synergy between the Indian and Japanese armed forces.

Tactical drills during the exercise will encompass establishing a Temporary Operating Base, creating an Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR) Grid, setting up Mobile Vehicle Check Posts, executing Cordon and Search Operations in a hostile village, Heliborne operations, and House Intervention Drills. The event will also feature a Weapon and Equipment Display, showcasing India’s ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ initiative and the nation’s growing defense industrial capability.

Lieutenant General TOGASHI Yuichi, Commanding General, Eastern Army, Japan Ground Self Defence Force, is slated to visit India during the exercise. On March 3rd, 2024, he will visit Mahajan Field Firing Ranges to witness Combat Shooting demonstrations, Special Heliborne Operations (SHBO), and House Intervention Drills.

Exercise ‘DHARMA GUARDIAN’ serves as a platform for the exchange of best practices in tactics, techniques, and procedures for conducting tactical operations. By promoting interoperability, camaraderie, and mutual understanding, the exercise aims to elevate defense cooperation and strengthen bilateral relations between India and Japan.