News: JASDF contingent arrived in Jodhpur, Rajasthan, ahead of the exercise.
Key Features
- Participants: Indian Air Force (IAF) & Japanese Air Self-Defense Force (JASDF).
- Bilateral air exercise between India and Japan.
- First Edition: 2023 at Hyakuri Air Base, Japan.
- 2026 Location: Jodhpur, Rajasthan.
- Focus: Improving interoperability, operational synergy, tactical proficiency and mutual understanding.
- Includes air-combat manoeuvring and complex operational scenarios.
Japanese Participation
- 3 Mitsubishi F-2A fighter aircraft from the 8th Air Wing, Tsuiki Air Base.
- Around 110 Japanese personnel participating.
- First time the Mitsubishi F-2 is participating in a military exercise in India.
Importance
- Strengthens India–Japan defence cooperation.
- Enhances the ability of both air forces to operate together effectively.