India Issues NOTAM for Major IAF Drills in Northeast Amid Dual-Front Preparedness

India has issued multiple Notices to Airmen (NOTAMs) across its northeastern airspace as the Indian Air Force (IAF) gears up for a series of large-scale operational exercises. The move comes as part of heightened border preparedness and coincides with the launch of ‘Exercise Trishul’, a major tri-service drill along the western frontier with Pakistan.

Large-Scale Air Operations Planned Across Northeast

The IAF has scheduled its northeastern combat readiness drills on November 6, November 20, December 4, December 18, January 1, and January 15, 2026. These exercises will include extensive air defence manoeuvres, multi-aircraft sorties, and logistics operations across several forward air bases. The northeastern corridor, bordering China, Bhutan, Myanmar, and Bangladesh, remains one of India’s most sensitive strategic zones, making air surveillance and rapid deployment crucial to national security.

Strategic Focus and Objectives

Officials indicate that the exercises will test the IAF’s operational agility, communication efficiency, and interoperability between regional commands. The drills are designed to strengthen joint coordination and validate readiness for high-altitude operations. The initiative aligns with India’s broader strategy to modernise its air defence network and enhance preparedness against evolving regional threats.

Understanding NOTAM and Its Significance

A Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) temporarily restricts civilian air traffic in specific zones to ensure safe execution of military operations. During active NOTAMs, civil aircraft are barred from entering the designated airspace to avoid mid-air conflicts with combat or reconnaissance missions. India routinely issues NOTAMs during military exercises or times of elevated security risk, allowing unrestricted operational freedom for the armed forces.

Exam Oriented Facts

• NOTAM stands for Notice to Airmen, restricting civilian air activity during military drills.
• IAF exercises are scheduled on six dates between November 2025 and January 2026.
• The drills cover the northeastern borders adjoining China, Bhutan, Myanmar, and Bangladesh.
• ‘Exercise Trishul’ is a 12-day tri-service exercise along the Pakistan border.

Exercise Trishul and India’s Dual-Front Readiness

Simultaneously, India has commenced ‘Exercise Trishul’, a comprehensive tri-service operation along the western border in Gujarat and Rajasthan. Involving the Army, Navy, and Air Force, the 12-day drill includes warships, missile systems, and frontline fighter aircraft such as Rafales and Sukhoi Su-30MKIs. The concurrent exercises in the east and west underline India’s dual-front readiness, showcasing its capability to sustain simultaneous military operations and strengthen overall strategic deterrence.