The seventh edition of the India-Japan Joint Military Exercise, Dharma Guardian 2026, was held at the Foreign Training Node in Chaubattia, Uttarakhand, from February 24 to March 8. Since 2018, the annual exercise has alternated between India and Japan, serving as a key pillar of defence cooperation between the two nations. Its significance has grown in light of shared security concerns and the changing dynamics of global terrorism. The closing ceremony, held yesterday, marked the successful completion of intensive joint training between the Indian Army and the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force (JGSDF), underscoring the deepening strategic partnership and reaffirming both nations’ commitment to regional peace, stability, and strengthened defence collaboration.

During the exercise, troops from both countries focused on improving interoperability and joint operational capabilities, with an emphasis on counter-insurgency, counter-terrorism, urban warfare, and complex-terrain combat drills. The training provided opportunities to exchange best practices, operational procedures, and professional expertise, while enhancing physical fitness, marksmanship, and fieldcraft. It also fostered camaraderie through meaningful cultural interactions and exposure to each other’s traditions.

A highlight of Dharma Guardian 2026 was Exercise ASAHI SHAKTI, conducted as a Validation Exercise to assess the standards achieved during training. This 48-hour field exercise simulated operational scenarios in the Chaubattia region, where joint forces executed operations against terrorists. Activities included terrain analysis, establishing a Company Operating Base, intelligence gathering via patrols and ambushes, cordon and search operations, special heliborne missions, room intervention, and hostage rescue drills. Advanced surveillance technologies, including drones, enhanced situational awareness, coordination, and operational efficiency.

The closing ceremony was attended by Major General Tsunehiro Yanagida, Vice Commanding General, 1st Division, JGSDF, and Major General Sudhanshu Sharma, SM, VSM, Chief of Staff, Headquarters 14 Corps, representing the Indian Army. The successful conclusion of Dharma Guardian 2026 highlights the growing India-Japan defence partnership and their shared determination to address contemporary security challenges collaboratively.