ISLAMABAD: The Indian Air Force (IAF) has announced large-scale aerial exercises in parts of Gujarat near the Pakistani border, issuing a Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) to reserve the airspace exclusively for military operations.
A post on X noted, “India issues NOTAM for Indian Air Force exercise near the southern section of its border with Pakistan, 20–21 January 2026.”
Additional notifications on X also highlight the airspace reservation for the IAF exercise on the same dates, with multiple updates referencing the restricted airspace near the southern border with Pakistan.
According to the NOTAM, the airspace will be closed to international flights from January 20 to January 21, 2026, during which it will be reserved solely for IAF operations.
The exercises will involve frontline combat aircraft, including Rafale, Sukhoi-30 MKI, Jaguar, and other fighter jets. The drills are expected to feature high-speed sorties, aerial combat manoeuvres, and potentially live-fire or bombing training, reflecting a high level of operational readiness, according to a report by the Indian regional newspaper Desh Gujarat.
The restricted airspace covers sensitive regions along India’s southern border with Pakistan, including parts of the Arabian Sea, Sir Creek, and areas near Rajkot and Ahmedabad. Reports indicate the designated airspace will be temporarily reserved for military operations from 1430 UTC on January 20 to 1800 UTC on January 21, 2026, with some prior NOTAM applicability on January 6 and 7.
The advisory has been issued to alert civil aviation operators of potential restrictions, and commercial flights may be rerouted to ensure safety and operational efficiency during the exercise period.
Defence sources note that the exercise is part of routine preparedness and training activities conducted by the IAF to maintain operational readiness. Such drills are carried out regularly and do not signify any immediate escalation.
Military analysts highlight that these exercises are essential to maintain combat readiness, enhance pilot proficiency, and test coordination among multiple aircraft platforms.
However, given the proximity to the Pakistan border, the drills are being closely monitored in the region, especially amid broader geopolitical tensions in South Asia.
Both India and Pakistan, as nuclear-armed neighbours, regularly observe each other’s military activities along their borders, and airspace restrictions issued via NOTAM are considered standard procedure ahead of significant aerial exercises.
