India Announces Large-Scale Air Force Drills Near Pakistan Border in January; Airspace Closed for NOTAM-Led Exercise

India’s Indian Air Force has announced large-scale aerial exercises along its western border near Pakistan, issuing a Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) that will restrict airspace and suspend international flights over the exercise area on January 20–21, 2026, according to multiple news reports.

The restricted zone covers portions of Gujarat, including areas close to the Arabian Sea, Sir Creek, and regions near Rajkot and Ahmedabad—a strategic sector on India’s southern border with Pakistan where military sensitivity is high.

According to the announcements, the exercise will involve India’s frontline fighter jets, including Rafale, Sukhoi-30MKI, Jaguar and other combat aircraft. The drills are expected to include high-speed sorties, aerial combat manoeuvres and potentially simulated live-fire or bombing exercises to enhance operational training.

Airspace Closure and Flight Disruption

The Civil Aviation Authority’s NOTAM instructs that international civilian flights will be rerouted or suspended in affected air corridors during the two-day period to ensure safety and deconfliction with military aircraft operations. Earlier alerts suggest the NOTAM may also apply on additional dates such as January 6–7 in preparation for the main exercise.

Routine Training or Signalling?

Indian defence sources cited in local media describe the exercise as part of routine preparedness training, emphasising that such drills are commonly held to maintain operational readiness of combat units. However, the proximity of the drills to Pakistan’s border and the inclusion of advanced combat aircraft have attracted regional attention.

Observers note that while military exercises do not necessarily signal immediate escalation, transparency and communication are critical to reduce misperceptions, particularly in sensitive border regions where airspace restrictions and frequent notifications can be interpreted in different ways.

Context of Ongoing Military Activities

This announcement follows several other Indian military exercises in 2025, including tri-service field drills near the western front and northeastern border areas, as part of regular operational training cycles. Past military notifications have similarly used NOTAMs to manage airspace and safety during complex aerial activities.