New Delhi | The Indian Air Force is preparing for a large-scale air combat exercise near the Pakistan border, with India issuing a Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) reserving airspace from March 5 to March 12. The temporary restriction will close the designated airspace to civilian flights for eight days to ensure safe conduct of the military drills.
According to officials, the reserved airspace lies in the southern sector of the India–Pakistan border, particularly around the desert regions of Rajasthan and Sindh. The move has reportedly triggered heightened vigilance in Pakistan, with its military adjusting deployments and monitoring the exercise closely.
Exercise After Operation Sindoor
The upcoming drill follows India’s recent large-scale airpower exercise conducted at Pokhran Test Range after Operation Sindoor, which concluded on February 27. That exercise tested several operational capabilities of the Indian Air Force.
Defence sources said such exercises are designed to maintain operational readiness and assess the force’s ability to respond quickly under different combat scenarios. Fighter jets, transport aircraft, helicopters and other military platforms are expected to participate in the upcoming drills.
Pakistan Reacts to NOTAM
Following the NOTAM announcement, Pakistan has reportedly stepped up surveillance and repositioned certain air and ground assets to keep track of the exercise.
Meanwhile, Asif Ali Zardari, President of Pakistan, addressed a joint session of Parliament on March 2 and accused India of preparing for another conflict. He also described India’s suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty provisions as “water terrorism” and reiterated Pakistan’s political and diplomatic support for the Kashmir issue.
Regional Tensions Add Context
The military activity comes amid heightened geopolitical tensions in the broader region, particularly due to conflicts and security developments in West Asia. Several countries have already adjusted flight routes and strengthened security measures due to the evolving situation.
Although Indian authorities describe the exercise as a routine training activity, its timing and proximity to the border have made it strategically significant.
Impact on Civil Aviation
A NOTAM is an official aviation advisory issued to inform pilots and airlines about temporary hazards or restricted airspace. During large military exercises, airspace is often reserved to prevent interference between military operations and civilian aircraft.
Airlines may need to alter their flight routes during the eight-day period to avoid the restricted zone, a standard precaution taken during major defence drills.
