India-Japan Joint Military Exercise ‘Dharma Guardian 2025’ in Full Swing at Mount Fuji

India-Japan Joint Military Exercise ‘Dharma Guardian 2025’ in Full Swing at Mount Fuji

Mount Fuji, Japan – March 2, 2025: The sixth edition of the India-Japan joint military exercise Dharma Guardian 2025 is currently underway at Mount Fuji, Japan. This nearly two-week-long military drill, which began last week, will conclude next Sunday. The exercise focuses on enhancing interoperability and coordination between the armies of both nations, particularly in joint counter-insurgency and counter-terrorism operations.

The Dharma Guardian exercise is a crucial aspect of defense cooperation between India and Japan. It provides both armies with an opportunity to share best practices, improve tactical skills, and build a strong partnership in tackling common security challenges. This year’s edition is witnessing high-intensity training sessions, including urban warfare tactics, hostage rescue operations, close-quarter combat, and intelligence-based tactical maneuvers.

Strengthening Defense Cooperation

India and Japan share a deep strategic partnership, with defense cooperation being a key pillar. The Dharma Guardian exercise, which started in 2018, has played a significant role in fostering greater synergy between the Indian Army and the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force (JGSDF). Both countries face evolving security threats in the Indo-Pacific region, making joint military drills like this essential for preparedness and response capabilities.

This year, the Indian Army has deployed a highly trained contingent specializing in counter-terrorism operations, while the JGSDF has mobilized its elite forces known for their expertise in mountain warfare and rapid response. Through integrated training modules, troops from both sides are practicing seamless coordination in real-world combat scenarios.

Training Modules and Tactical Drills

The exercise involves a mix of conventional and unconventional military drills. Some of the key components include:

• Counter-Terrorism Operations: Training on neutralizing terrorist threats in urban and rural settings, including building clearance drills.
• Counter-Insurgency Warfare: Strategies to combat insurgent activities, including intelligence gathering and ambush techniques.
• Combat First-Aid & Casualty Evacuation: Medical assistance and evacuation procedures in hostile conditions.
• Joint Tactical Planning: Simulated operations to enhance joint planning and execution.
• Weapon Handling & Live-Fire Drills: Familiarization with each other’s weaponry and conducting live-fire exercises.

The rigorous training not only enhances operational readiness but also fosters mutual trust and respect between the troops of both nations. The soldiers engage in cultural exchange activities, further strengthening people-to-people ties.

A Step Towards Regional Security

As India and Japan continue to strengthen their strategic ties, Dharma Guardian 2025 reinforces their commitment to maintaining regional peace and stability. Both countries are key stakeholders in the Indo-Pacific and are working together to counter emerging threats, including terrorism, cyber warfare, and hybrid conflicts.

The ongoing military exercise comes at a time when both nations are expanding their defense cooperation, with regular high-level dialogues and collaboration in defense technology. The exchange of tactical knowledge and operational strategies between the Indian Army and JGSDF enhances their preparedness to deal with any crisis, whether in a conventional or asymmetric warfare scenario.

With Dharma Guardian 2025 progressing in full swing, the exercise is set to conclude with a joint validation phase next weekend. This final segment will test the troops’ ability to operate as a single unit in executing a counter-terror operation, showcasing the deep synergy developed throughout the training.

Conclusion

The Dharma Guardian series has evolved into a cornerstone of India-Japan military cooperation. This year’s edition at Mount Fuji underscores the growing defense partnership between the two nations, aiming for greater regional security and stability. As the exercise moves towards its final phase, both armies stand to gain invaluable experience and further deepen their strategic relationship.

India and Japan continue to strengthen their ties not just in defense but across multiple domains, reinforcing their shared vision for a free, open, and rules-based Indo-Pacific region.