IAF's 3-day border exercise underway in Rajasthan
Indian Air Force
(IAF) is conducting a major air exercise in border districts of Rajasthan, testing its operational readiness and strategic capabilities. The three-day exercise, which began on Wednesday and will continue until Friday, is taking place in Jaisalmer, Barmer, and Jodhpur areas close to the Pakistan border.
A Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) has been issued, restricting civilian flights in the airspace between Jaisalmer and Jodhpur to allow uninterrupted military operations.
During the exercise, fighter jets such as Rafale, Sukhoi-30, Mirage 2000, and Jaguar are conducting both day and night sorties. The drills focus on engaging aerial targets and executing precise ground attacks. The sounds of fighter jets have been resonating over the border areas, especially during nighttime maneuvers.
Sources said the exercise involves coordinated operations from key airbases in Jodhpur and Uttarlai in Barmer, with sorties being flown over the Pokhran Field Firing Range in Jaisalmer. The NOTAM ensures that the Air Force can operate drones, missiles, and other combat aircraft without interference from civilian air traffic, reducing the risk of accidents and allowing for more realistic training scenarios.
Although described as a routine and pre-planned exercise, the timing and location are seen as highly significant. Experts suggest that the drills send a clear message to Pakistan, especially in the context of recent attempts at drone incursions, espionage, and infiltration along the border. The exercise underlines India's readiness to respond promptly to any hostile activity.
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