Japan's F-2A Fighter Jets to Participate in Joint Exercise in India

In a landmark development for defense relations, Japan's F-2A fighter jets will arrive in India for the first time to participate in the 'Veer Guardian 2026' exercise. Scheduled from September 9 to 21, this bilateral air exercise aims to enhance training and mutual understanding between the Indian and Japanese air forces. With approximately 110 Japanese military personnel joining the exercise, this event signifies a new chapter in the growing defense collaboration between the two nations. The exercise will focus on joint training experiences, air combat maneuvers, and fostering trust among pilots. As both countries face regional security challenges, this initiative underscores their commitment to strengthening defense ties.

By Narendra Chaudhary Sep 2, 2026, 18:32 IST

Significant Defense Collaboration Between India and Japan

In September 2026, a pivotal event is set to unfold in the defense collaboration between India and Japan. For the first time, three F-2A fighter jets from the Japan Air Self-Defense Force (JASDF) will land on Indian soil, accompanied by approximately 110 Japanese military personnel. This contingent will participate in the bilateral air exercise named 'Veer Guardian 2026' taking place in Jodhpur, Rajasthan.

The exercise is scheduled from September 9 to 21, 2026, at the Jodhpur Air Force Station and the surrounding airspace. The Japanese side will contribute around 110 personnel along with the F-2A aircraft. According to Japan, the primary aim of this exercise is to enhance training, tactical proficiency, and mutual understanding between the two air forces.

The F-2A jets will be dispatched from the 8th Air Wing based at the Tsuki Air Base in Fukuoka. This marks the first instance of Japanese fighter jets participating in a bilateral air exercise in India.

What is the Purpose of 'Veer Guardian'?

This exercise is not part of any combat operation. Its goal is to provide both nations' air forces with joint training experiences and to foster a better understanding of each other's operational methodologies.

During the exercise, there will be a focus on air combat maneuvers and training among fighter aircraft. This is expected to enhance coordination and trust between pilots and military personnel from both countries.

Takahiro Morita, the head of Japan's Air Self-Defense Force, has described this exercise as a significant opportunity to strengthen mutual understanding and trust between the two nations.

In 2023, Indian Fighter Jets Visited Japan

The inaugural edition of 'Veer Guardian' took place in January 2023 in Japan, where the Indian Air Force participated with Su-30MKI fighter jets, C-17 transport aircraft, and IL-78 refueling planes. The Japanese side contributed F-2 and F-15 jets.

Now, nearly three years later, India is hosting the exercise. The arrival of Japanese F-2A jets on Indian soil is viewed as a significant step forward in the defense relations between the two countries.

Long Journey from Japan to Jodhpur

The Japanese F-2A jets will undertake a long journey to reach India. Reports indicate that the aircraft will travel from the Tsuki Air Base in Japan to Naha Air Base in Okinawa and then to India via Thailand. The direct distance from Japan to Jodhpur is approximately 5,600 kilometers.

During this extensive deployment, logistics and flight support will be crucial. Reports suggest that the U.S. Air Force will provide assistance such as aerial refueling. However, the primary focus of the exercise will remain on India-Japan bilateral air training.

What is the F-2A?

The F-2A is a multirole fighter aircraft developed under Japan-U.S. collaboration. Its development has been linked to the U.S. F-16 design program, with significant contributions from Japanese companies.

The F-2 has long been a vital component of Japan's air defense system. Its inclusion in 'Veer Guardian 2026' will provide a new joint training experience for both the Indian Air Force and the Japan Air Self-Defense Force.

Strengthening India-Japan Defense Ties

The arrival of F-2A jets in India comes at a time when India and Japan are continuously enhancing their defense cooperation. On August 20, 2026, Japanese Defense Minister Shinjiro Koizumi and Indian Defense Minister Rajnath Singh welcomed the preparations for 'Veer Guardian 2026' and emphasized advancing joint exercises involving the army and navy.

Military exercises like Dharma Guardian and maritime drills such as JAIMEX are also crucial components of the defense partnership. Thus, the first visit of F-2A jets to India is seen as a continuation of this broader collaboration.

Context of China, but Not Targeting Any Country

Both India and Japan face security challenges in their respective regions. India has long-standing concerns regarding its Himalayan border with China, while Japan remains vigilant about China's increasing military activities in the East China Sea and the Western Pacific.

However, Japan has clarified that 'Veer Guardian 2026' is not aimed at any specific country. Its official purpose is to enhance training, tactical proficiency, and mutual understanding between the air forces of India and Japan.

First Time Japanese Fighters on Indian Soil

The most notable aspect of this entire development is that Japanese F-2A fighter jets will participate in an air exercise in India for the first time. The deployment of three F-2A jets along with around 110 Japanese military personnel adds a new chapter to the defense collaboration between the two nations.

Starting on September 9, 'Veer Guardian 2026' will not only provide an opportunity for joint training for both air forces but will also reflect the growing strategic and defense relations between India and Japan.