Japan to Deploy Fighter Jets in India for First Time Amid Rising Indo‑Pacific Security Ties

Japan announced it will station fighter jets in India next month, marking the first time the country will deploy its aircraft abroad. The move follows a Japan Air Self‑Defence Force statement that the jets will participate in the joint training exercise Veer Guardian 26 with the Indian Air Force from September 9 to 21 in Rajasthan. Officials say the deployment reflects Tokyo’s intent to deepen security cooperation with “like‑minded” Indo‑Pacific partners as it increases defence spending in response to China’s expanding military capabilities. The exercise will test interoperability between the two air forces and signal a new level of military collaboration in the region.