Exercise DHARMA GUARDIAN 2025 was the sixth edition of the joint military exercise between the Indian Army and the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force (JGSDF). It was conducted in Japan from 24 February to 9 March 2025 at the East Fuji Manoeuvre Training Area.
The Indian Army contingent consisted of 120 personnel, mainly from a battalion of the MADRAS Regiment. The Japanese contingent was represented by the 34th Infantry Regiment of the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force, with a similar strength.
The main objective of this annual exercise was to improve military cooperation, operational coordination and interoperability between the two countries. The training focused on joint urban warfare and counter-terrorism operations under a United Nations mandate.
The exercise also included joint tactical drills, physical fitness activities and disaster response strategies. It strengthened the defence partnership between India and Japan and highlighted their shared commitment to peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region.
Key Highlights of Exercise DHARMA GUARDIAN 2025
| Particulars | Details |
| Exercise Name | DHARMA GUARDIAN |
| Edition | 6th |
| Participating Countries | India and Japan |
| Indian Force | Indian Army |
| Japanese Force | Japan Ground Self-Defense Force (JGSDF) |
| Indian Contingent | 120 personnel |
| Indian Regiment | MADRAS Regiment |
| Japanese Regiment | 34th Infantry Regiment |
| Location | East Fuji Manoeuvre Training Area, Japan |
| Duration | 24 February – 9 March 2025 |
| Previous Edition | Rajasthan, India (2024) |
| Main Focus | Urban Warfare and Counter-Terrorism |
| Frequency | Annual |
| Conducted In | India and Japan alternately |
What Is Exercise DHARMA GUARDIAN?
DHARMA GUARDIAN is an annual bilateral military exercise between India and Japan. It is conducted alternately in both countries to strengthen defence cooperation and improve the operational capabilities of their armed forces.
The exercise provides an opportunity for soldiers from both countries to understand each other’s military procedures, exchange professional knowledge and practise coordinated operations.
Its major focus areas include:
- Joint urban warfare operations.
- Counter-terrorism operations under a UN mandate.
- Joint planning and tactical drills.
- Physical fitness and combat readiness.
- Disaster response strategies.
- Improving interoperability between the two armies.
Participants in Exercise DHARMA GUARDIAN 2025
The sixth edition involved military personnel from both participating countries.
| Country | Participating Force | Regiment | Personnel |
| India | Indian Army | MADRAS Regiment and other supporting units | 120 |
| Japan | Japan Ground Self-Defense Force | 34th Infantry Regiment | Similar strength |
The Indian contingent was primarily represented by troops from a battalion of the MADRAS Regiment, along with personnel from other arms and services.
The Japanese contingent represented the 34th Infantry Regiment of the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force.
Objectives of Exercise DHARMA GUARDIAN 2025
The exercise was designed to improve the ability of Indian and Japanese forces to conduct coordinated military operations.
Its important objectives included:
- Improving Interoperability: Developing the ability of both armies to operate together during joint military missions.
- Urban Warfare Training: Practising military operations in complex urban environments.
- Counter-Terrorism Operations: Strengthening the ability to respond to terrorism-related threats under a UN mandate.
- Joint Tactical Planning: Improving coordination through combined planning and tactical exercises.
- Physical Fitness: Maintaining high levels of physical fitness and operational readiness.
- Disaster Response: Practising disaster response strategies to improve cooperation during emergencies.
Strategic Importance of India-Japan Defence Cooperation
India and Japan share a strong strategic partnership based on economic cooperation, regional security and common interests in maintaining peace in the Indo-Pacific.
Exercise DHARMA GUARDIAN is an important part of their growing defence relationship.
The exercise also followed the official visit of India’s Chief of Army Staff, General Upendra Dwivedi, to Japan from 14 to 17 October 2024.
Its strategic importance can be understood through the following points:
- Defence Partnership: Strengthens military-to-military relations between India and Japan.
- Indo-Pacific Security: Supports their shared vision of a free, open and inclusive Indo-Pacific.
- Military Coordination: Improves the ability of both forces to conduct joint operations.
- Professional Exchange: Encourages the exchange of military knowledge, experience and training methods.
- Regional Stability: Reinforces cooperation in addressing emerging regional security challenges.
Previous Edition of Exercise DHARMA GUARDIAN
The fifth edition of Exercise DHARMA GUARDIAN was conducted in Rajasthan, India, from 25 February to 9 March 2024.
It was held at the Mahajan Field Firing Ranges, with 40 personnel from each country.
| Edition | Year | Location |
| 5th | 2024 | Rajasthan, India |
| 6th | 2025 | East Fuji Training Area, Japan |
| 7th | 2026 | Chaubattia, Uttarakhand, India |
The exercise follows a rotational arrangement, allowing both countries to host the military drill in alternate years.
Important Facts for Competitive Examinations
Exercise DHARMA GUARDIAN 2025 is an important topic for UPSC, RAS, SSC, CDS, AFCAT and other competitive examinations.
Remember these key facts:
- Exercise DHARMA GUARDIAN is conducted between India and Japan.
- It is a bilateral military exercise.
- The 2025 edition was the sixth edition.
- The Indian contingent consisted of 120 personnel.
- The Indian contingent was mainly represented by the MADRAS Regiment.
- Japan was represented by the 34th Infantry Regiment of JGSDF.
- The exercise took place in Japan from 24 February to 9 March 2025.
- Its main focus was urban warfare and counter-terrorism operations.
- The fifth edition was conducted in Rajasthan in 2024.
- The exercise is held annually and alternately in India and Japan.
Conclusion
Exercise DHARMA GUARDIAN 2025 strengthened military cooperation between India and Japan through joint training, urban warfare exercises and counter-terrorism operations. The sixth edition provided an important platform for both armies to improve interoperability, tactical coordination and operational readiness.
The exercise also highlighted the growing importance of India-Japan defence relations in promoting regional security, peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region.
