New Delhi, May 6: Amid escalating tensions between India and Pakistan, the Indian government has issued a Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) for a significant air exercise along the southern section of the Indo-Pakistan border, scheduled for May 7 and 8, 2025. This exercise will involve the Indian Air Force (IAF) conducting maneuvers along the International Border in Rajasthan, featuring frontline fighter jets including Rafales, Mirage 2000s, and Sukhoi-30 MKIs.
The NOTAM indicates that the air exercise will commence at 3:30 PM on May 7 and continue until 9:30 PM on May 8, restricting airspace in the affected areas. The operation aims to assess the IAF’s combat preparedness, response time, and coordination under simulated hostile conditions, with both day and night flying operations planned.
This high-intensity aerial drill coincides with nationwide civil defense mock exercises ordered by the Union Home Ministry, which are also set for May 7. The mock drills will take place across around 300 selected districts, marking the first exercise on this scale since the 1971 India-Pakistan war. The drills are intended to enhance civil defense effectiveness and prepare the public for potential emergencies.
Villagers living along the India-Pakistan border in Rajasthan's Barmer district have expressed their unwavering support for the Indian armed forces, ready to assist the Indian Army in any potential conflict. Meanwhile, the heightened security measures come in the wake of a recent terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, where 26 civilians were killed.
Following the April 22 attack, India has taken decisive actions against Pakistan, including suspending the Indus Waters Treaty of 1960 until Pakistan ceases its support for cross-border terrorism. Additionally, the Indian government has imposed a ban on all goods originating from or exported to Pakistan, effectively halting bilateral trade flows.
The airspace restrictions and military preparations reflect the seriousness of the current geopolitical climate. According to defense sources, the IAF’s exercise aims to demonstrate India’s air combat capabilities and readiness amidst ongoing tensions with Pakistan.
Security forces have also been active in response to the recent threats. On May 6, a suspicious individual was arrested in the forests around the Baisaran Valley, found with a bulletproof jacket cover. This follows the earlier arrest of a 23-year-old man from Tangmarg, suspected of providing logistical support to the terrorists involved in the Pahalgam attack.
The situation along the Line of Control (LoC) remains tense, with reports of Indian forces launching strong counter-offensives against ceasefire violations by Pakistani troops. Notably, Pakistani forces have been observed retreating from several forward posts, a rare occurrence that suggests a decline in morale.
The NOTAM, which stands for Notice to Airmen, is an official notification that conveys vital information regarding changes or risks in airspace use. It is crucial for ensuring the safety and coordination of air operations, alerting pilots and air traffic controllers about temporary changes affecting flight operations.
As the IAF prepares for the upcoming exercises, the Indian government’s actions reflect a broader strategy to bolster national security in the face of persistent threats. The simultaneous civil defense drills are designed to engage the public and enhance readiness for any emergencies that may arise.
In summary, the upcoming air exercise and civil defense drills represent a significant display of India’s military preparedness and commitment to national security, particularly in light of recent events. With the nation on high alert, these initiatives aim to reinforce both military and civilian readiness against potential threats.
