India-Japan Joint Military Exercise 'DHARMA GUARDIAN' Kicks Off in Rajasthan

The 5th edition of the annual joint military exercise, 'DHARMA GUARDIAN,' between the Indian Army and the Japan Ground Self Defence Force, commenced at the Mahajan Field Firing Ranges in Rajasthan. The exercise, scheduled from February 25th to March 9th, 2024, aims to enhance military cooperation and combined capabilities for executing joint operations in a semi-urban environment under Chapter VII of the United Nations Charter.

The contingent for each side consists of 40 personnel, with the Japanese contingent represented by troops from the 34th Infantry Regiment and the Indian Army contingent by a Battalion from the Rajputana Rifles.

The exercise will focus on various aspects, including high physical fitness, joint planning, tactical drills, and basic special arms skills. Tactical drills will involve establishing a Temporary Operating Base, creating an Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) Grid, setting up Mobile Vehicle Check Posts, executing Cordon and Search Operations in a hostile village, Heliborne operations, and House Intervention Drills.

A Weapon and Equipment Display will highlight India's 'Atmanirbhar Bharat' initiative, showcasing the country's growing defense industrial capability. Lieutenant General TOGASHI Yuichi, Commanding General, Eastern Army, Japan Ground Self Defence Force, is expected to visit India during the exercise and witness Combat Shooting demonstrations, Special Heliborne Operations, and House Intervention Drills at Mahajan Field Firing Ranges on March 3rd, 2024.

The joint exercise aims to facilitate the sharing of best practices in tactics, techniques, and procedures, promoting interoperability, camaraderie, and understanding between the troops of both nations. This collaboration is expected to strengthen defense cooperation, fostering closer bilateral relations between India and Japan.