India has issued a Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) for a major Indian Air Force (IAF) exercise across its northeastern region, which borders China, Bhutan, Myanmar, and Bangladesh.
According to officials, the NOTAM reflects a move to strengthen operational preparedness in a strategically sensitive zone.
The NOTAMs have been issued for multiple dates over the coming months. The first phase will take place on November 6 and November 20, followed by exercises on December 4 and December 18. The Indian Air Force has plans to continue the operations into the new year with additional NOTAMs issued for January 1 and January 15, India TV reported.
IAF To Conduct Large-Scale Exercise In Northeast
During this period, the IAF will conduct extensive combat training, coordinated sorties, and logistics drills across multiple forward bases and air stations in the northeastern region. The area is among India’s most strategically sensitive theatres, sharing borders with China, Bhutan, Myanmar, and Bangladesh.
The large-scale exercise is expected to enhance India’s air dominance and operational coordination in the strategically sensitive region.
What Is NOTAM?
– A Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) is issued whenever a specific airspace must be cleared of civilian flights.
– Once a NOTAM is in effect, civilian flights are barred from entering the airspace, allowing Air Force jets, missiles, and drones to operate unhindered. It also prevents accidents and casualties during military exercises.
– This restriction not only facilitates smooth military operations but also protects the safety of non-combatants by keeping commercial flights clear of potential hazards.
– Similar NOTAMs were issued in the past during heightened tension with Pakistan to ensure commercial aircraft remain out of potential combat zones.
India Launches Trishul
India on Thursday launched Trishul, a 12-day tri-service exercise along the Pakistan border, prompting Pakistan to close most of its airspace. Trishul is a large-scale exercise and the first major war games since Operation Sindoor six months ago. The exercise involves the Indian Army, Air Force, and Navy and missile units, tanks, warships, and fighter jets like the Rafale and Sukhoi Su-30 in coordinated strike scenarios, primarily focused on Kutch in Gujarat.