Indian Air Force to Conduct Major Air Exercise Along Pakistan Border
The Indian Air Force (IAF) is set to begin a major air exercise along the India-Pakistan border from May 7, involving its frontline fighter aircraft, including the Rafale, Mirage 2000, and Sukhoi-30s. According to officials, the exercise will take place over the desert sector and nearby areas, with a Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) issued by aviation authorities stating that the exercise will continue until May 15.
The restricted zones for the exercise cover parts of the Pokhran range and surrounding areas, with some airspace over Rajasthan to be temporarily closed to civil flights during the exercise. However, the IAF has assured that all civil scheduled flights operating in the exercise areas will be accommodated. This move comes amid heightened tensions between India and Pakistan following the recent terror attack in Pahalgam, in which 26 people, mostly tourists, were killed.
As reported by the Times of India, the IAF’s exercise is aimed at showcasing its preparedness and capabilities along the Pakistan border. The involvement of frontline fighter aircraft such as the Rafale, Mirage 2000, and Sukhoi-30s is significant, as it demonstrates the IAF’s ability to respond to any potential threats. The exercise is also seen as a show of strength and a message to Pakistan that India is prepared to defend its territory.
In a related development, the Union Home Ministry has decided to organise a Civil Defence Exercise and Rehearsal across 244 categorised districts on May 7. This move is aimed at reviewing preparedness and rectifying loopholes in civil defence measures. A meeting was held at the Ministry of Home Affairs, attended by high-ranking officials, including the DG Civil Defence and DG NDRF.
"We are reviewing preparedness. Loopholes to be rectified have been identified," said a member of the National Disaster Management Authority after the MHA meeting. The civil defence exercise is aimed at ensuring that the country is prepared to respond to any potential threats, including terror attacks and natural disasters.
The IAF’s air exercise and the civil defence exercise are part of a series of measures being taken by the Indian government to enhance national security and preparedness. The government has been working to strengthen the country’s defence capabilities, with a focus on modernising the armed forces and improving civil defence measures.
The Times of India quoted officials as saying that the IAF’s exercise is a routine drill aimed at showcasing its preparedness and capabilities. However, the timing of the exercise is significant, given the recent terror attack in Pahalgam and the ongoing tensions between India and Pakistan. The exercise is seen as a demonstration of India’s commitment to defending its territory and protecting its citizens.
The IAF’s air exercise is also being seen as a message to Pakistan that India is prepared to respond to any potential threats. The involvement of frontline fighter aircraft and the scale of the exercise demonstrate the IAF’s capabilities and its ability to respond to any situation.
In conclusion, the Indian Air Force’s major air exercise along the Pakistan border is a significant demonstration of its preparedness and capabilities. The exercise, which involves frontline fighter aircraft, is aimed at showcasing the IAF’s ability to respond to any potential threats. The civil defence exercise being conducted across the country is also aimed at ensuring that India is prepared to respond to any potential threats, including terror attacks and natural disasters.
