Indian Army to hold 'Dharma Guardian' with Japan from Feb 25

The Indian Army is gearing up to conduct the sixth edition of Exercise Dharma Guardian with the Japan Ground Self-Defence Force (JGSDF) at Mount Fuji, Japan, from February 25 to March 9. The announcement follows the Indian General Upendra Dwivedi’s visit to Japan in October 2024, where both nations reaffirmed their commitment to enhancing defence cooperation.

The exercise's primary objective is to improve interoperability between the two forces through joint urban warfare and counter-terrorism drills conducted under a United Nations mandate. By honing tactics in these specialised areas, both armies aim to strengthen their operational readiness for a wide range of security challenges.

Building on the momentum from previous editions, Dharma Guardian 2025 underscores the growing strategic partnership between India and Japan. The exercise provides a platform for personnel from both



militaries to exchange best practices, refine coordination strategies, and develop mutual trust.

The collaboration has gained significance against the backdrop of an evolving security environment in the Indo-Pacific region, where India and Japan share a vision of stability, prosperity, and respect for international norms. Through consistent joint training, the two countries will demonstrate their resolve to address potential threats and uphold regional peace.

In addition to tactical manoeuvres, Dharma Guardian 2025 will foster stronger cultural and professional ties between the participating contingents. Military drills often include social and cultural exchanges that promote deeper understanding of each other's traditions, values, and operational approaches. Such interactions help in building a foundation of mutual respect, which is crucial for effective collaboration in real-world scenarios.