India-Japan Joint Military Exercise ‘Dharma Guardian 2025’ Concludes Successfully Amid Rising Indo-Pacific Tensions

Shizuoka, Japan – The 6th edition of Exercise Dharma Guardian, the annual military exercise between India and Japan, successfully concluded on March 9, 2024, at the East Fuji Training Area in Japan. The two-week-long joint training, which began on February 24, was conducted at an enhanced scale, featuring company-strength participation from both sides, the Indian Army stated.

In a statement, the Indian Army highlighted the significance of the exercise, stating:

"Exercise Dharma Guardian 2024 successfully concludes at East Fuji Training Area, Japan. Strengthening Indo-Japan defence cooperation, troops of both armies participated in joint counter-terror operations, disaster relief drills, and tactical manoeuvres, enhancing interoperability and operational synergy."

India-Japan Defence Cooperation

The closing ceremony was attended by Lieutenant General Toriumi Seiji, Commanding General of the Japan Ground Self-Defence Force (JGSDF) 1st Division, who commended the troops for achieving all training objectives. He emphasized that the joint exercise has enhanced the operational readiness of both militaries while deepening defence cooperation between the two nations.

Dharma Guardian is one of the most critical bilateral military exercises between India and Japan. It underscores the growing defence partnership between the two Indo-Pacific democracies amid evolving regional security dynamics. Over the years, the exercise has expanded in scope, incorporating advanced urban warfare tactics, counter-terrorism operations, and peacekeeping scenarios under the United Nations (UN) framework.

Counter-Terrorism, Urban Warfare & Disaster Relief

The 2024 edition of Dharma Guardian focused on:

• Counter-Terrorism Operations – Troops trained extensively in urban warfare techniques, hostage rescue scenarios, and coordinated assaults, improving their ability to operate in dense urban environments.
• United Nations Peacekeeping Missions – Training included Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) drills, aimed at enhancing rapid response capabilities in crisis situations.
• Tactical Manoeuvres & Combat Drills – Indian and Japanese troops executed complex tactical drills, including heli-borne insertions, slithering, and storming exercises, refining their interoperability in high-intensity operations.

Beyond military training, the exercise featured cultural exchange programs, reinforcing the historical and civilizational ties between India and Japan. Notable highlights included a special Yoga session conducted by the Indian Army for Japanese troops, promoting wellness and discipline. A Kalaripayattu demonstration by the Indian contingent showcased India's ancient martial arts tradition. Moreover, Japanese troops reciprocated with a traditional martial arts performance, reflecting their rich warrior heritage.

72-Hour Final Validation Phase: Simulated Counter-Terror Operation

The exercise concluded with a 72-hour validation phase, where Indian and Japanese troops conducted a joint counter-terrorism operation in an urban setting. The scenario included:

1. High-intensity combat drills
2. Rapid urban intervention techniques
3. Coordinated mechanized movements
4. Live assault simulations

All planned objectives were successfully met, demonstrating the combat readiness and operational synergy between both armed forces.

With increasing geopolitical tensions in the Indo-Pacific, Dharma Guardian plays a vital role in strengthening India-Japan defence cooperation. The successful conclusion of the exercise reaffirms both nations’ commitment to regional security and stability. The next edition of Dharma Guardian is expected to build upon these gains, incorporating greater joint mission planning, real-world tactical simulations, and integration of advanced military technologies.