Japan Explores India For Long-Range Missile; Drone Training

Japan has sent personnel to India to coordinate defence-related matters as Tokyo explores training options for its long-range surface-to-ship missiles and small attack drones.

Japanese Ground Self-Defense Force (GSDF) Chief of Staff General Masayoshi Arai confirmed the deployment at a press conference on Tuesday. He said developing suitable training environments to utilise the missile’s range of around 1,000 km remained a major challenge.

Japan is examining training facilities both domestically and overseas to improve its operational capabilities.

Arai confirmed that discussions with India covered various aspects of defence coordination, including potential firing opportunities. However, he declined to disclose further details, citing Japan’s relationship with India.

Arai described India as an important partner in the Indo-Pacific region. He stressed the need to strengthen defence cooperation and military exchanges amid an increasingly complex security environment.

Earlier this month, a 34-member delegation from the GSDF Command and General Staff Course visited India to deepen bilateral defence ties.

During its October 6-9 visit, the delegation interacted with Indian Army and Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) representatives.

The team also visited the Centre for Land Warfare Studies (CLAWS) and the Wargame Research and Development Centre (WARDEC).

These engagements offered insights into India’s defence capabilities, military training and emerging technologies.

Japan dispatched defense officials to India earlier this month to examine the possibility of using the nation’s missile ranges for testing long-range weapons and smaller attack drones, the GSDF’s chief of staff said. https://t.co/O4KxeyfZ9v

— The Japan Times (@japantimes) October 27, 2026

The delegation’s programme included exposure to India’s cultural heritage, further supporting bilateral engagement.

The latest discussions reflect growing defence cooperation between New Delhi and Tokyo as both countries seek to deepen strategic ties and address evolving security challenges across the Indo-Pacific.

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