Amid heightened tensions along the India-Pakistan border, India has issued a Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) for a large-scale tri-services military exercise in the Rajasthan and Gujarat regions. The exercise, involving the Army, Air Force, and Navy, is scheduled to take place from October 30 to November 10.
The NOTAM serves as an official notification to pilots, air traffic controllers, and aviation personnel, informing them of temporary airspace restrictions and safety measures during the exercise. Such notices are vital for aviation safety and national security, particularly when military activities increase. The exercise aims to check combat effectiveness, response times, and coordination in simulated adverse situations. It will involve day and night flying activities with sophisticated fighter jets and support aircraft like AWACS and tankers.
This military drill occurs against a backdrop of ongoing tensions between India and Pakistan. In May 2025, India launched Operation Sindoor, conducting precision strikes against terrorist infrastructure inside Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. Pakistan retaliated with drone and missile attacks targeting Indian airbases, military installations, and civilian areas. These events have led to a state of heightened military readiness on both sides.
The location of the exercise, along the international border in the desert regions of Rajasthan and Gujarat, is strategically significant. The exercise is part of India's continued efforts to maintain military readiness. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh recently visited Rajasthan to observe the ongoing 'Thar Shakti' military exercise, praising the troops' courage, skill, and dedication. This exercise showcased advanced military technologies, including robotic dogs, drones, and modern tanks, emphasizing the integration of speed, firepower, and precision in desert warfare.
The Indian Air Force (IAF) has previously issued NOTAMs for air exercises near the Indo-Pak border. For instance, in May 2025, a NOTAM was issued for air exercises in Rajasthan, restricting civilian flights. These exercises involved frontline fighter jets like Rafale, Mirage 2000, and Sukhoi-30 MKIs. Similarly, Pakistan has also issued NOTAMs for its airspace, reflecting ongoing tensions and strategic posturing. These exercises and airspace restrictions signal a continued state of vigilance and preparedness on both sides of the border.
