India has announced large-scale air force exercises near its border with Pakistan, scheduled to take place in the western state of Gujarat from January 20 to 21, 2026. The announcement has drawn regional attention due to the proximity of the drills to sensitive border areas and key air routes.
According to official notifications, the Indian Air Force has issued a Notice to Airmen reserving restricted airspace for the duration of the exercises, resulting in the temporary suspension or rerouting of international and domestic flights passing through the area.
The planned drills will involve frontline combat aircraft, including Rafale jets, Sukhoi-30MKI fighters, and Jaguar aircraft. Indian media reports indicate that the exercises will feature high-speed aerial manoeuvres, air combat simulations, and possibly live-fire or bombing practice. As a result, aviation authorities have warned commercial operators to expect disruptions and adjust flight plans to ensure safety and operational efficiency.
The restricted airspace covers parts of northern Gujarat extending towards the Kutch coastline along the Arabian Sea. It also includes areas near Sir Creek, Rajkot, and Ahmedabad, all of which lie close to the Pakistan border. Observers note that such locations often attract attention due to their strategic significance, particularly amid fluctuating regional security dynamics.
Additional dates and aviation advisories
In addition to the main exercise window, authorities have indicated that similar airspace restrictions will also apply on January 6 and 7. These earlier dates suggest preparatory or preliminary drills ahead of the main exercise. Civil aviation operators have received advisories to remain alert during this period, as flight schedules may change at short notice.
Aviation officials said the NOTAM aims to minimise risks to civilian aircraft by clearly defining restricted zones and timeframes. Consequently, airlines are expected to reroute flights to avoid the designated areas. Although such measures are routine during military exercises, they often lead to temporary congestion in alternative air corridors.
Defence sources emphasised that the drills form part of regular training and preparedness activities conducted by the Indian Air Force. They added that such exercises are designed to maintain operational readiness and enhance coordination among different squadrons and platforms. According to these sources, the announcement does not signal any immediate escalation or hostile intent.
Regional context and security implications
Despite official reassurances, the timing and location of the exercises have prompted discussion among analysts due to ongoing tensions between India and Pakistan. Large-scale military drills near borders often attract scrutiny, especially when advanced aircraft and potential live-fire components are involved.
However, defence officials reiterated that the Indian Air Force regularly conducts similar exercises across different regions. They stressed that the drills should be viewed within the context of standard military training cycles rather than as a response to any specific development.
As January approaches, regional stakeholders and aviation operators will closely monitor the situation. While the exercises are expected to conclude within the announced timeframe, their impact on air traffic and regional perceptions underscores the sensitivity surrounding military activity near international borders.
