Dharma Guardian Exercise | 25 Feb 2026

Source: PIB

The 7th edition of the annual Joint Military Exercise 'Dharma Guardian' between the Indian Army and the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force (JGSDF) commenced in Chaubattia, Uttarakhand.

• Aim: The primary objective is to strengthen military collaboration and enhance combined capabilities to undertake joint operations in a semi-urban environment.
• Participating Units: The Indian Army contingent is drawn from the Ladakh Scouts, while the JGSDF is represented by troops from the 32nd Infantry Regiment.
• Key Tactical Activities: The schedule includes establishing a Temporary Operating Base, developing an Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR) grid, setting up Mobile Vehicle Check Posts, conducting Cordon and Search Operations, and executing Heliborne Operations and House Intervention Drills.
• Strategic Significance: Held alternately in India and Japan, the exercise is a key pillar of defence cooperation, anchored in the employment of modern technology, enhancing interoperability and contemporary operational aspects.
• Other India-Japan Military Exercises: JIMEX (Japan-India Maritime Exercise), Veer Guardian (air exercise), Shinyuu Maitri (air exercise), Sahyog Kaijin (coast guard), Malabar (India, Japan, Australia, and the United States).