Indian Air Force Announces Large-Scale Air Exercises Near Pakistan Border in Gujarat

The Indian Air Force has announced large-scale aerial exercises in parts of Gujarat close to the Pakistani border. In this connection, a Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) has been issued, reserving the airspace for Indian Air Force exercises and closing it to international flights from January 20 to January 21.

These exercises will involve Rafale, Sukhoi-30 MKI, Jaguar, and other frontline fighter aircraft. The drills will include high-speed flying, air combat maneuvers, and possibly live firing or bombing training.

The restricted airspace zone covers a sensitive area along India’s southern border with Pakistan, including the Arabian Sea, Sir Creek, and areas near Rajkot and Ahmedabad. This region lies very close to Sir Creek, a disputed strip that flows into the Arabian Sea. The eastern edge of the zone extends toward Ahmedabad and Rajkot, which are only about 100 kilometers from the Pakistani border.

This area is strategically highly sensitive because it is relatively close to Pakistan’s Karachi port and has implications for the maritime boundary as well.