The 6th edition of the India-Japan joint military exercise, Dharma Guardian, concluded successfully at the East Fuji Training Area in Japan. Held from February 24 to March 9, the exercise marked a significant milestone in bilateral defence cooperation, with troops participating at the company-strength level, according to a statement from the Indian Army.
The closing ceremony was attended by Lieutenant General Toriumi Seiji, Commanding General of Japan’s Ground Self-Defence Force 1st Division, who commended the troops for successfully meeting all objectives. He expressed satisfaction with the joint training, noting it had enhanced operational readiness and deepened the India-Japan defence relationship.
The exercise primarily focused on counter-terrorism operations in urban terrain and included training on United Nations peacekeeping operations, Humanitarian Assistance, and Disaster Relief (HADR). Troops engaged in tactical drills, exchanged operational knowledge, and built stronger bonds of friendship and trust.
Cultural exchange activities also played a key role, with the Indian contingent conducting a Yoga session for the Japanese troops, alongside performances of Kalari Pattu and Japanese martial arts.
The exercise concluded with a 72-hour validation phase, where troops demonstrated their abilities through a joint counter-terrorism operation in an urban environment, successfully meeting the operational standards. Dharma Guardian reinforced the commitment of both nations to regional peace, security, and stability, further solidifying their longstanding partnership.
