In a show of solidarity and military prowess, India and Japan have come together to engage in their first joint fighter jet exercise near Tokyo, starting on Monday. This initiative by the two nations is sure to bolster military and cultural bonds between the two countries. India and Japan have had a strong relationship since many decades. There has always been a mutual respect between the two nations and a story of togetherness that has proven so throughout their history. As the two countries aim to upgrade defence and security ties with an eye on China’s growing military might, the joint fighter jet exercise is a practical step in the right direction.
The defence ministry of Japan has stated that the 11-day exercise will include eight Japanese fighter jets and four Indian fighter aircraft, two transport aircraft and an aerial refueling tanker. The exercise was proposed during talks between the Japanese and Indian defence and foreign ministers in 2019, and was delayed as a result of the global pandemic. It is not just the drill itself that India and Japan are promoting, but the relationship that they share. Such joint exercises are extremely important in promoting trust and camaraderie between two nations and build respect for each other. This is something that India and Japan have been trying to do for many decades, and the joint fighter jet exercise is a further testament to their efforts.