Veer Guardian 2023
Veer Guardian 2023 is the first edition of a bilateral air exercise between the Japan Air Self-Defense Force (JASDF) and the Indian Air Force (IAF). This exercise is aimed at strengthening the defence ties between the two countries and improving their mutual understanding and cooperation. The exercise took place over a period of 16 days and focused on air combat manoeuvring, interception, and air defence missions in both the visual and beyond the range settings.
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Objectives
The main objective of Veer Guardian 2023 was to provide an opportunity for the JASDF and the IAF to train together, exchange skills and experiences, and improve their operational capabilities. The exercise aimed to promote the sharing of professional skills and interoperability between the two countries’ air forces, with a focus on air combat manoeuvring, interception, and air defence missions. By training together, the two air forces aimed to enhance their mutual understanding, increase their operational readiness, and improve their ability to cooperate in the event of a joint military operation.
Exercise Details
The personnel of the two countries’ air forces flew in each other’s fighter aircraft to improve their understanding of each other’s operating philosophies. JASDF took part in the exercise with F-2 and F-15 aircraft, while the IAF participated with Su-30 MKI aircraft, one IL-78 flight, and two C-17 Globemaster strategic airlift transport aircraft. The exercise involved a variety of air combat training scenarios, including air-to-air interception and air defence missions, as well as beyond the range settings.
Importance of the Exercise
Veer Guardian 2023 was a significant event in the defence relationship between India and Japan. It showed the commitment of both countries to strengthen their defence ties and improve their mutual understanding and cooperation. The exercise was an opportunity for the JASDF and the IAF to train together and exchange skills and experiences, which will ultimately enhance their operational capabilities and improve their ability to cooperate in the event of a joint military operation.