India has released a Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) indicating a major Indian Air Force (IAF) combat drill set to take place from June 7 to 8 near the southern stretch of the India-Pakistan International Border in Rajasthan. The high-intensity drill, part of the IAF’s routine operational readiness checks, will take place in restricted airspace to ensure secure and uninterrupted execution of flight operations.
As per the NOTAM, the aerial exercises are scheduled to start at 3:30 p.m. on Saturday, June 7, and conclude by 9:30 p.m. on Sunday, June 8. During this period, civilian and unauthorized military aircraft will not be permitted to operate in the designated zone.
An official from the Indian Air Force confirmed that the exercise will showcase a wide spectrum of air power. This includes the deployment of frontline combat aircraft such as the Rafale, Mirage 2000, and Sukhoi-30, along with aerial surveillance platforms and support systems. The drill will focus on real-time operational coordination and combat strategy under high-stress conditions.
Although the Ministry of Defence hasn’t officially linked the operation to current geopolitical tensions, the exercise’s timing and location have raised eyebrows. It follows closely after the April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam, where 26 civilians were killed, triggering Operation Sindoor and a wave of military and diplomatic actions from New Delhi.
Amid rising tensions, India restricted its airspace for Pakistani military and civilian aircraft between April 30 and May 23. This move came after Islamabad blocked Indian air routes, creating a standoff in regional airspace.
The India-Pakistan Line of Control (LoC) in Jammu and Kashmir remains volatile, with frequent ceasefire breaches from the Pakistani side prompting robust retaliation from Indian forces.
With the announcement of this high-stakes drill near the border, India signals its heightened combat preparedness and determination to maintain air dominance amid rising threats. The presence of top-tier fighter jets and strategic surveillance gear reinforces the IAF’s message of deterrence and operational superiority.
This exercise, although routine on the surface, aligns closely with India’s evolving defense posture and underscores the country’s commitment to Atmanirbharata (self-reliance) and future-readiness in military strategy.
