IAF’S JOINT AIR DEFENCE EXERCISE WITH JAPAN, ‘VEER GUARDIAN 2023’ CONCLUDES
Photos and story by Masaki Komatsu, with Indian Air Force Press Release
Masaki Komatsu writes:
I’m reporting to you about the exercise named “Veer Gurdian2023”, which was held at Hyakuri last month.
This is the first-time joint exercise with the Indian Air Force and Japan Air Self Defence.
The aircraft involved are: IAF – 4 x Su30MKI from 220 SQ Desert Tigers, flying out of Halwara AFB
JASDF: F2A/B from 3 Hikotai
F15J/DJ from Hiko Kyodogun (Aggressor Group)
The exercise started on Jan 16th 2023 and finished on Jan 26th. Unfortunately, there was no flying on week of Jan 26th, after the exercise.
And the Indian Air Force unit departed for their home on Jan 28th.
An Indian Air Force Press Release Posted On: 27 JAN 2023 1:09PM by PIB Delhi
The inaugural edition of the bilateral air exercise ‘Veer Guardian 2023’ between the Indian Air Force (IAF) and Japan Air Self Defence Force (JASDF) concluded in Japan, on 26 January 2023.
The JASDF participated in the exercise with its F-2 and F-15 aircraft, while the IAF contingent participated with the Su-30 MKI aircraft. The IAF fighter contingent was complemented by one IL-78 Flight Refueling Aircraft and two C-17 Globemaster strategic airlift transport aircraft.
During the joint training spanning 16 days, the two Air Forces engaged in complex and comprehensive aerial manoeuvres in multiple simulated operational scenarios. The exercise involved precise planning and skillful execution by both the air forces. IAF and JASDF engaged in air combat manoeuvring, interception and air defence missions, both in Visual and Beyond Visual Range settings. Aircrew of the two participating Air Forces also flew in each other’s fighter aircraft to gain a deeper understanding of each other’s operating philosophies.
Exercise ‘Veer Guardian 2023’ provided the two Air Forces with an opportunity to enhance mutual understanding. The exercise also witnessed numerous ground interactions between IAF and JASDF personnel wherein various aspects were discussed by both sides. This enabled the participating contingents to obtain an invaluable insight into each other’s best practices and learn from each other’s unique capabilities.
