On September 2-3, 2025, the Indian Air Force (IAF) will undertake a major military exercise over the Arabian Sea, just 200 nautical miles (370 km) away from Pakistan's Karachi airspace. This extends 70 nautical miles (129 km) from the danger zone, the controlled airspace of Pakistan.
A Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) has been issued, indicating a need for civilian aircraft to change their routes. This exercise could involve live weapon firing, missile testing, or large-scale air maneuvers by the air force.
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When, Where, and How is the Exercise?
Beginning at 11 AM on September 2, 2025, this two-day exercise will continue until 2 PM on September 3, involving areas near Gujarat and Rajasthan over the Arabian Sea. Though routine, the location is strategically sensitive as it is directly facing Pakistan's airspace. The issuance of NOTAM indicates high-intensity aerial activity that necessitates rerouting civilian aircraft.
Source: aajtak
What is NOTAM?
Simply put, it's a warning to airmen about abnormal activities such as weapon tests or drills in a specific area, issued under the International Civil Aviation Convention (CICA). Past reports suggest these NOTAMs typically precede significant exercises. This time the area is strategically crucial, 200 nautical miles from Karachi, Pakistan.
Leadership Example: IAF Chief's Past Role
In previous exercises, the IAF Chief has personally participated, piloting MiG fighters from Bikaner, showcasing operational significance. This exercise's proximity to Pakistan will enhance leadership visibility. Leading pilots and frontline jets like Rafale, Sukhoi-30 MKI, MiG-29, Mirage-2000, and Tejas may participate, involving ground strikes, precision bombing, and night operations.
Source: aajtak
Why Near Pakistan's Airspace?
This corridor in the Arabian Sea is sensitive as it intersects Pakistan's air routes. The exercise demonstrates India's strategic readiness, especially near Pakistan. In recent tensions, such as the Pahalgam terror attack in April 2025 (26 fatalities), this is a deterrence signal.
These exercises frequently occur before conflicts, like during Operation Sindhurakshak. Pakistan has also issued prior NOTAMs, such as in August 2025 for missile tests. The focus is on combat preparedness, weapon testing, and multi-domain challenges.
Also Read: Indian Navy's MiG-29K Fighters Ready to Launch Missiles on Pakistan, Deployed on INS Vikrant
Why Frequent NOTAMs?
In 2025, the IAF issued several NOTAMs. In June, a major exercise took place near the Pakistan border. In May, a two-day wargame in Rajasthan featured Rafale and S-400. A significant exercise along the Rajasthan border in July practiced foiling Pakistani drone attacks. In August, a drill near the LoC from August 19-21. This pattern displays IAF's routine preparedness while acting as a deterrence amid Pakistan tensions.
Source: aajtak
Impact on Civil Aviation and Regional Security
NOTAM will reroute commercial flights, potentially causing delays, with restricted airspace. For Pakistan, it is a cause for concern as similar past exercises heightened alertness. For India, it strengthens air defense, especially with systems like S-400 and Rafale.
This Arabian Sea exercise highlights IAF's strategic strength. Its proximity to Pakistan enhances deterrence, yet is routine. Such NOTAM indicates India is vigilant. We are proud of the IAF's world-class readiness.
