IAF, Japan air chiefs take Tejas flight during Veer Guardian

Indian Air Force chief Air Chief Marshal A P Singh and Japan Air Self-Defense Force chief General Takehiro Morita flew India’s indigenous Tejas fighter during Veer Guardian 2026 in Jodhpur, highlighting growing operational cooperation and interoperability between the two air forces

Jodhpur: Indian Air Force chief Air Chief Marshal A P Singh and Japan Air Self-Defense Force Chief of Staff General Takehiro Morita flew in India’s indigenous Tejas fighter aircraft on Sunday, showcasing the growing defence and aerial cooperation between the two countries.

The two air chiefs boarded the Tejas at the Jodhpur Air Force Station as the Indian Air Force and Japan Air Self-Defense Force conducted the joint air exercise Veer Guardian 2026.

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The exercise began on September 9 and will conclude on September 22. It is currently in its final phase, with the two air forces testing their aerial combat capabilities through simulated combat scenarios and carrying out a range of operational activities.

During the final phase, fighter aircraft from both countries have been practising various air-strike missions and other aerial combat exercises.

The flight by the two air chiefs in the Tejas also underlined the growing trust and operational cooperation between India and Japan.

The exercise is particularly significant as it marks the first time that fighter aircraft of the Japan Air Self-Defense Force have participated in a joint training exercise conducted in India.

Besides the Indian Air Force’s indigenous Light Combat Aircraft Tejas, frontline fighters such as the Sukhoi-30 MKI and Rafale are participating in the exercise. The Japanese Air Self-Defense Force has fielded its F-2A fighter jets.

The two air forces are practising various aerial missions and combat activities aimed at strengthening operational synergy, mutual understanding and coordination during joint operations.

The Tejas flight by the air chiefs also showcased India’s indigenous fighter capability during the joint exercise.

Since the exercise began, air warriors from both countries have undertaken various aerial missions and operational activities. Officials from the two air forces have also gained insights into each other’s operational procedures and combat tactics.

Enhancing coordination during joint operations is a key component of Veer Guardian 2026, which has provided both air forces an opportunity to test their capabilities in realistic combat-like scenarios and learn from each other’s operational experience.