The first-ever bilateral exercise involving air forces of India and Japan  concluded in Japan on Thursday. Named ‘Veer Guardian 2023’, the exercise was aimed at  stepping up strategic and defence ties between the two countries

• Japan deployed 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, 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 Japan Air Self Defence Force(JASDF)engaged in air combat manoeuvring, interception and air defence missions.