The much-anticipated 5th edition of the Joint Military Exercise ‘DHARMA GUARDIAN’ between the Indian Army and the Japan Ground Self Defence Force commenced today with great enthusiasm and fervour at Mahajan Field Firing Ranges in Rajasthan.
The Exercise, slated to run from February 25th to March 9th, 2024, marks another milestone in the strategic partnership between the two nations.
Exercise ‘DHARMA GUARDIAN’ holds a special significance as it is an annual endeavour conducted alternatively in India and Japan. This year, the contingent from both sides comprises 40 personnel each, representing a diverse range of expertise and experience.
The Japanese contingent is proudly represented by troops from the 34th Infantry Regiment, while the Indian Army contingent is represented by a Battalion from the esteemed Rajputana Rifles.
The primary aim of the Exercise is to foster Military Cooperation and enhance combined capabilities to execute joint operations in a semi-urban environment under Chapter VII of the United Nations Charter.
Throughout the Exercise, there will be a keen focus on achieving a high degree of physical fitness, joint planning, joint tactical drills, and the mastering of basic special arms skills.
Tactical drills scheduled during the Exercise encompass a wide array of scenarios aimed at honing the operational readiness of the participating forces.
These drills include establishing Temporary Operating Bases, creating Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) Grids, setting up Mobile Vehicle Check Posts, executing Cordon and Search Operations in hostile environments, conducting Heliborne operations, and practicing House Intervention Drills.
Additionally, a Weapon and Equipment Display will showcase India’s ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ initiative and the nation’s growing defence industrial capability.
Adding to the significance of the Exercise, Lieutenant General TOGASHI Yuichi, Commanding General, Eastern Army, Japan Ground Self Defence Force, is scheduled to visit India on the sidelines of “Exercise DHARMA GUARDIAN”.
The esteemed General officer will grace the Mahajan Field Firing Ranges on March 3rd, 2024, to witness Combat Shooting demonstrations, Special Heliborne Operations (SHBO), and House Intervention Drills, further strengthening the bond between the two nations.
Exercise ‘DHARMA GUARDIAN’ serves as a platform for both sides to exchange best practices in Tactics, Techniques, and Procedures of conducting tactical operations.
Moreover, it facilitates the development of interoperability, camaraderie, and bonhomie between troops from India and Japan, thereby enhancing the level of defence cooperation and fostering bilateral relations between the two friendly nations.
As the Exercise unfolds over the coming days, it is poised to further solidify the longstanding defence partnership between India and Japan, symbolizing their shared commitment to regional security and stability.
