The 5th edition of the Joint Military Exercise ‘DHARMA GUARDIAN’ between the Indian Army and the Japan Ground Self Defence Force kicked off today at Mahajan Field Firing Ranges in Rajasthan. This annual exercise, alternately held in India and Japan, features a contingent of 40 personnel from each side. The Japanese contingent, represented by troops from the 34th Infantry Regiment, is matched by the Indian Army contingent from the Rajputana Rifles Battalion.
The primary aim of the Exercise is to foster military cooperation and enhance combined capabilities for executing joint operations in a semi-urban environment under Chapter VII of the United Nations Charter. The focus of the Exercise includes maintaining a high degree of physical fitness, joint planning, joint tactical drills, and mastering basic special arms skills.
Tactical drills practiced during the Exercise encompass the establishment of a Temporary Operating Base, the creation of an Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR) Grid, setting up a Mobile Vehicle Check Post, executing Cordon and Search Operations in a hostile village, Heliborne operations, and House Intervention Drills. Additionally, a Weapon and Equipment Display will be organized to showcase India’s ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ initiative and the country’s growing defense industrial capability.
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”. On March 3, 2024, he will visit Mahajan Field Firing Ranges to witness Combat Shooting demonstrations, Special Heliborne Operations (SHBO), and House Intervention Drills.
Exercise ‘DHARMA GUARDIAN’ serves as a platform for both sides to share their best practices in Tactics, Techniques, and Procedures for conducting tactical operations. The exercise aims to facilitate the development of inter-operability, bonhomie, and camaraderie between the troops of both nations, ultimately enhancing the level of defense cooperation and fostering bilateral relations.
