Originally written by:Hindustan times
Link to the article: https://www.hindustantimes.com/cities/dehradun-news/indiajapan-joint-military-exercise-dharma-guardian-begins-in-uttarakhand-101771947163564.html
India and Japan have once again strengthened their strategic and defense partnership as the latest edition of the joint military exercise Dharma Guardian commenced in Uttarakhand. The exercise reflects the growing military cooperation between the two nations and their shared commitment to regional stability and global peace.
The exercise is being conducted between the Indian Army and the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force (JGSDF). It is taking place at a high-altitude training area in Uttarakhand, providing troops with challenging terrain conditions that simulate real-world operational scenarios.
Strengthening India-Japan Defense Ties
“Dharma Guardian” is an annual bilateral military exercise held alternately in India and Japan. Over the years, it has evolved into a key platform for enhancing interoperability, tactical coordination, and mutual understanding between the armed forces of both countries.
The Indian contingent is represented by troops from the Indian Army, while Japan is represented by the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force. Both sides are engaging in joint drills that focus primarily on counter-terrorism operations, urban warfare techniques, disaster response, and coordinated combat strategies.
Focus on Counter-Terrorism and Urban Warfare
This year’s edition places strong emphasis on counter-terrorism operations in semi-urban and mountainous environments. Troops will participate in:
● Room intervention and clearing drills
● Cordon-and-search operations
● Combat medical training
● Tactical communication exercises
● Coordinated joint planning
The rugged terrain of Uttarakhand offers realistic training conditions, enabling soldiers to test their endurance and tactical capabilities in extreme weather and high-altitude environments.
Strategic Importance in the Indo-Pacific
The exercise comes at a time when India and Japan continue to deepen their strategic partnership in the Indo-Pacific region. Both countries share a vision of a free, open, and rules-based Indo-Pacific, and military cooperation forms a crucial pillar of this partnership.
Beyond tactical drills, “Dharma Guardian” also strengthens cultural exchange and camaraderie between troops. Interaction sessions, cultural programs, and joint activities help build trust and mutual respect, which are essential during multinational operations.
In recent years, India and Japan have expanded defense cooperation through multiple agreements, joint exercises across the Army, Navy, and Air Force, and high-level strategic dialogues. “Dharma Guardian” complements other collaborative initiatives and reflects the steady evolution of bilateral ties.
As the exercise progresses, it is expected to further enhance operational synergy between the two forces and reaffirm the strong and enduring partnership between India and Japan.
The beginning of “Dharma Guardian” in Uttarakhand stands as another milestone in India-Japan defense relations underscoring shared values, strategic alignment, and a collective commitment to regional peace and security.
