Why in news?
The 7th edition of the India-Japan joint military exercise 'Dharma Guardian' commenced on February 24, 2026, in Chaubattia, Uttarakhand, and is scheduled to run until March 9.
Dharma Guardian – India–Japan Joint Military Exercise
Background
- Started: 2018
- Participants: Indian Army & Japan Ground Self-Defense Force (JGSDF)
- Frequency: Annual, held alternately in India and Japan
- Objective: Strengthen military cooperation, interoperability, and joint response to security challenges.
Dharma Guardian 2026 (7th Edition)
- Venue: Chaubattia, Uttarakhand (India)
- Indian Contingent: Ladakh Scouts regiment
- Japanese Contingent: 32nd Infantry Regiment, JGSDF
- Strength: 120 personnel from each side
- Focus:
- Counter-terrorism operations
- Urban warfare drills
- Joint planning & tactical maneuvers
Strategic Significance
- Indo-Pacific Security: Reinforces India–Japan partnership in maintaining peace and stability.
- Defense Diplomacy: Enhances trust, coordination, and operational synergy.
- Regional Balance: Acts as a counterweight to rising security challenges in Asia.
- Military Modernization: Provides exposure to advanced training methods and doctrines.
Other India–Japan exercises:
- Dharma Guardian → Army
- Shinyuu Maitri → Air Force
- JIMEX → Navy
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