The seventh edition of the India Japan joint military exercise Dharma Guardian is currently taking place in Uttarakhand, highlighting the growing defence cooperation between the two countries. The exercise is being conducted at the foreign training centre located in Chobatiya village in the Almora district of Uttarakhand. The training program started on 24 February 2026 and is scheduled to continue until 9 March 2026.
This joint military exercise involves participation from the Indian Army and the Japan Ground Self Defence Force. Around 120 military personnel from each country are taking part in the training activities. The primary objective of the exercise is to enhance cooperation, improve coordination and strengthen operational capabilities between the two armed forces.
The Dharma Guardian exercise focuses on conducting military operations in semi urban environments. During the training, soldiers are practicing various tactical activities designed to simulate real operational scenarios. These include establishing operational bases, conducting intelligence gathering operations, carrying out surveillance activities and setting up vehicle check posts.
In addition to these activities, participating troops are also performing coordinated search operations in simulated environments. These exercises are intended to improve communication, teamwork and joint operational planning between the forces of the two countries. Military officials stated that such exercises are essential to ensure that both armies can work together effectively during joint missions or international peacekeeping operations.
One of the main goals of the Dharma Guardian exercise is to enhance interoperability between the Indian Army and the Japan Ground Self Defence Force. Interoperability refers to the ability of two military forces to operate together smoothly by sharing information, tactics and operational procedures.
The training sessions also allow both countries to exchange their best practices and operational experiences. Soldiers from both sides are learning about each other’s strategies, equipment handling methods and field tactics. This exchange of knowledge is expected to improve their overall operational readiness.
Senior military officials have emphasized that joint exercises like Dharma Guardian help build strong professional relationships between the armed forces of friendly nations. These interactions contribute to mutual trust, better understanding and long term defence collaboration.
India and Japan have been strengthening their strategic partnership over the past several years. Defence cooperation is an important component of this partnership. Joint military exercises such as Dharma Guardian serve as a platform to enhance this cooperation and improve coordination in addressing regional security challenges.
Officials noted that the continuation of the Dharma Guardian exercise reflects the commitment of both India and Japan to maintaining peace, stability and security in the region. By training together, the two countries aim to develop the ability to respond effectively to emerging security situations.
The exercise will conclude on 9 March 2026 after several days of intensive training and joint operations. Military authorities believe that the outcomes of this exercise will contribute significantly to strengthening defence relations between India and Japan and improving their ability to work together in future missions.
