india-japan-military-exercise-dharma-guardian-to-begin-on-feb-25

India and Japan are set to conduct the sixth edition of their joint military exercise, Dharma Guardian, from February 25 to March 9 at Mount Fuji, Japan.

 

The exercise aims to strengthen coordination between the armed forces of both nations while focusing on urban warfare and counter-terrorism operations under a United Nations mandate.

 

The Indian Army highlighted that this year's exercise builds on the momentum of the Chief of the Army Staff’s successful visit to Japan in October 2024.

 

It is expected to enhance defence cooperation between the two countries, deepening their strategic partnership and fostering greater military-to-military interaction.

 

Dharma Guardian is a crucial platform for both armies to improve their operational understanding and tactical skills in complex combat scenarios.

 

The training will focus on joint planning, execution of tactical drills, and coordination in challenging environments, ensuring that both forces can work seamlessly in future peacekeeping and counter-insurgency missions.

 

Meanwhile, another joint military exercise, Cyclone III, is currently underway between the special forces of India and Egypt at the Mahajan Field Firing Ranges in Rajasthan.

 

The exercise, which began on February 11 and will conclude on February 23, is part of an annual series conducted alternately in India and Egypt. The last edition was held in Egypt in January 2024.

 

The Indian contingent participating in Cyclone III consists of 25 personnel from two Special Forces Battalions, while the Egyptian contingent comprises 25 personnel from its Special Forces Group and Task Force.

 

This exercise focuses on fostering deeper military cooperation, improving interoperability, and exchanging specialised tactics between the two forces.

 

Cyclone III includes a range of training activities such as advanced special forces skills, joint planning, and tactical drills designed for counterterrorism operations.

 

The final phase of the exercise will feature a 48-hour-long validation session, testing the participants’ ability to execute combat operations in desert and semi-desert terrain.

 

Additionally, the exercise provides an opportunity for the Egyptian forces to gain insights into India’s defence manufacturing capabilities. A display of indigenous military equipment and an overview of India’s defence industry have been planned as part of the event.