Today marks the commencement of the 5th edition of the Joint Military Exercise ‘DHARMA GUARDIAN‘ between the Indian Army and the Japan Ground Self Defence Force. Taking place at Mahajan Field Firing Ranges in Rajasthan, the exercise will run from February 25th to March 9th, 2024.
This annual exercise, alternating between India and Japan, aims 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 contingent of both sides consists of 40 personnel each, with troops from the 34th Infantry Regiment representing Japan and a Battalion from the Rajputana Rifles representing India.
Key objectives of the exercise include focusing on a high degree of physical fitness, joint planning, joint tactical drills, and basics of special arms skills. Tactical drills to be practiced during the exercise will include establishing a Temporary Operating Base, creating an Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR) Grid, executing Cordon and Search Operations, Heliborne operations, and House Intervention Drills.
Additionally, a Weapon and Equipment Display will showcase India’s ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ initiative and its growing defence industrial capability. Lieutenant General TOGASHI Yuichi, Commanding General, Eastern Army, Japan Ground Self Defence Force, is scheduled to visit India on March 3rd, 2024, to witness combat shooting demonstrations, Special Heliborne Operations (SHBO), and House Intervention Drills.
The exercise aims to facilitate the sharing of best practices in Tactics, Techniques, and Procedures of conducting tactical operations between the two sides. It will also enhance inter-operability, bonhomie, and camaraderie among troops, further fostering bilateral relations between India and Japan.
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