Japan India Relationship
Japan and India have been strengthening their relationship for the past decade. The two countries have been cooperating in various sectors such as defense, trade, and infrastructure. In 2020, the two countries further strengthened their ties by signing the Japan-India Special Strategic and Global Partnership Agreement. The agreement aims to promote defense and security cooperation between the two countries.
Japan India Fighter Jet Drill
The Japan-India joint fighter jet drill is a major step taken by the two countries to further strengthen their defense ties. The joint drill is slated to be held in January 2021 and will involve both the Indian Air Force (IAF) and the Japan Air Self-Defense Force (JASDF). The drill will involve various aspects of air combat such as air-to-air combat, maritime strike operations, and air-to-ground combat.
Objectives of the Drill
The main objective of the drill is to enhance the fighting capabilities of both countries’ air forces. The drill will also help the two countries to develop an understanding of each other’s operational capabilities and help them develop better cooperation and interoperability.
Drill Preparations
Both the IAF and the JASDF have been preparing for the drill for several months. The IAF is planning to deploy its Sukhoi-30MKI multirole fighters and its Mirage-2000 multirole fighters. The JASDF is expected to deploy its F-2A/B fighter jets. Both countries will also deploy aerial refueling tankers, airborne early warning and control platforms, and air-to-air missiles.
Drill Scenario
The drill will involve a mock combat scenario in which the IAF and the JASDF will engage in mock dogfights and bombing operations. The drill is expected to last for two weeks and will be conducted in multiple locations across India. The drill will also involve the deployment of ground forces in order to simulate a real-world conflict scenario.
International Attention
The drill has attracted attention from other countries in the region as well as from the international community. Neighboring countries such as China and Pakistan have expressed their concern about the drill and have asked India and Japan to exercise restraint. The United States, on the other hand, has welcomed the drill as it sees it as a positive step towards regional peace and stability.
Conclusion
The Japan-India joint fighter jet drill is an important step taken by the two countries to further strengthen their defense ties. The drill will help both countries develop an understanding of each other’s operational capabilities and help them develop better cooperation and interoperability. It will also send a strong message to other countries in the region about India and Japan’s commitment to regional peace and stability.
