Massive IAF combat exercises near border with Pakistan; NOTAM issued

The Indian Air Force (IAF) is conducting large-scale combat exercises near the southern sector of the India-Pakistan International Border in Rajasthan, with a Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) issued for the drills scheduled till Sunday, June 8.

The exercise is part of the IAF's routine operational preparedness. According to the NOTAM, the aerial drill will commence at 3:30 pm on June 7 and conclude at 9:30 pm on June 8. During this period, airspace over the designated region will be restricted to ensure the safe and seamless execution of air operations.

An official from the Indian Air Force confirmed that the combat exercises will involve a range of advanced air assets. These include frontline fighter jets such as Rafale, Mirage 2000, and Sukhoi-30, alongside various surveillance platforms and other support systems.

While the Ministry of Defence has not officially linked the exercise to ongoing geopolitical tensions, its timing and location carry notable implications.

The India-Pakistan International Border became a focal point following the terror attack in South Kashmir's Pahalgam. This incident triggered reciprocal airspace restrictions by both India and Pakistan, significantly straining bilateral relations.

In late April, India temporarily closed its airspace to all Pakistani-registered and military aircraft from April 30 to May 23. This action followed Pakistan's earlier decision to bar Indian flights from its airspace, marking an escalation in diplomatic and military frictions between the two nuclear-armed neighbours.

The situation remains tense along the Line of Control (LoC) in Jammu and Kashmir, where frequent ceasefire violations by Pakistani troops have prompted firm retaliatory responses from Indian forces. This latest exercise also comes against the backdrop of Operation Sindoor, which was launched on May 7 in retaliation to the terror attack in Pahalgam that claimed 26 lives.