In a noteworthy advancement in the defense relationship between India and Japan, Lt Gen Ajay Chandpuria, AVSM, VSM, General Officer Commanding (GOC) of the Vajra Corps, recently conducted a thorough review of the training and readiness of the Indian Army contingent preparing to take part in the forthcoming Exercise Dharma Guardian-VI. This joint military exercise is set to occur in Japan from February to March 2025 and is designed to enhance military cooperation and interoperability between the two nations.
During his review, Lt Gen Chandpuria praised the high standards of training and the exemplary morale of the Indian soldiers. He underscored the necessity of adopting best practices and fostering camaraderie among the troops. “The contingent’s readiness and spirit are commendable. I urge them to represent India with pride on the global stage, showcasing our commitment to peace and security,” he remarked, emphasizing the critical nature of the exercise in strengthening bilateral relations.
Exercise Dharma Guardian, now in its sixth edition, has become a fundamental aspect of the India-Japan defense collaboration, marked by a consistent increase in military engagements over time. The exercise not only serves as a platform for tactical-level training but also promotes mutual understanding and respect between the Indian Army and the Japanese Ground Self-Defence Force.
This review comes at a pivotal moment as the Indo-Pacific region’s strategic importance increasingly dominates global security narratives. Both India and Japan advocate for a free, open, and inclusive Indo-Pacific, making such exercises crucial in reinforcing their shared vision and enhancing their operational capabilities.
The Indian contingent’s involvement in Exercise Dharma Guardian-VI is just one facet of a broader series of military engagements. Previous exercises, along with joint initiatives like Veer Guardian and JIMEX—which emphasizes maritime security—highlight the growing military-to-military ties and underscore the ongoing defense technology cooperation and agreements regarding security information sharing.
Lt Gen Chandpuria’s visit, along with the anticipated exercise, arrives shortly after significant developments in defense cooperation between India and Japan. Recent agreements focusing on defense equipment and technology cooperation signal a momentum that this exercise is poised to further, enabling both nations to collaboratively tackle contemporary security challenges.
The participation of the Indian Army in Exercise Dharma Guardian-VI, under Lt Gen Ajay Chandpuria’s leadership, exemplifies India’s dedication to enhancing its military capabilities through international collaboration, while simultaneously strengthening its strategic partnership with Japan.
