India-Japan Joint Military Exercise: Dharma Guardian 2026

The 7th edition of India-Japan Joint Military Exercise Dharma Guardian was held from February 24 to March 8, 2026.

The exercise took place at the Foreign Training Node, Chaubattia, in Uttarakhand.
Dharma Guardian is an annual military exercise conducted alternately in India and Japan since 2018.
The exercise involves the Indian Army and the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force.
It aims to strengthen defence cooperation between India and Japan.
The exercise focused on counter-insurgency and counter-terrorism operations.
Training also included urban warfare and combat drills in complex terrain.
Troops exchanged operational procedures and best practices during the exercise.
Joint training improved firing skills, physical fitness and fieldcraft of soldiers.
The exercise also promoted cultural interaction and mutual understanding.
A key highlight was the validation exercise named “ASAHI SHAKTI”.