The first-ever bilateral exercise involving air forces of India and Japan concluded in Japan on Thursday. Named ‘Veer Guardian 2023’, the exercise was aimed at stepping up strategic and defence ties between the two countries
Giving details of the 16-day long exercise, officials said here on Friday, Japan deployed 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, the two Air Forces engaged in complex and comprehensive aerial manoeuvres in multiple simulated operational scenarios. The exercise involved precise planning and skillful execution by both the air forces. IAF and Japan Air Self Defence Force(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.
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. This enabled the participating contingents to obtain an invaluable insight into each other's best practices and learn from each other’s unique capabilities.