The inaugural edition of the bilateral air exercise 'Veer Guardian 2023' between the Indian Air Force (IAF) and Japan Air Self Defence Force (JASDF) concluded in Japan on  26 January 2023.

The 16-day long exercise was conducted at Hyakuri air base in Japan's Ibaraki Prefecture. 

The JASDF participated in the exercise with its F-2 and F-15 aircraft, while the IAF contingent participated with the Su-30 MKI aircraft.

The IAF fighter contingent was complemented by one IL-78 Flight Refueling Aircraft and two C-17 Globemaster strategic airlift transport aircraft.

During the joint training spanning 16 days, the two air forces engaged in complex and comprehensive aerial manoeuvres in multiple simulated operational scenarios, the Defence Ministry said in a statement on Friday (27 January).

The exercise involved precise planning and skillful execution by both the air forces.

IAF and JASDF engaged in air combat manoeuvring, interception and air defence missions, both in Visual and Beyond Visual Range settings.

Aircrew of the two participating Air Forces also flew in each other's fighter aircraft to gain a deeper understanding of each other's operating philosophies, the ministry said.

According to the ministry, exercise 'Veer Guardian 2023' provided the two air forces with an opportunity to enhance mutual understanding.

The exercise also witnessed numerous ground interactions between IAF and JASDF personnel wherein various aspects were discussed by both sides, the ministry said.

This enabled the participating contingents to obtain an invaluable insight into each other's best practices and learn from each other’s unique capabilities, it added.