India launches exercise 'Trishul’ near Pak border to test combat readiness; Pakistan shuts airspace
PTC Web Desk: India on Thursday launched exercise 'Trishul’, a 12-day tri-service military drill along the Pakistan border, showcasing its military strength and operational readiness. This marks India’s first major war exercise since Operation Sindoor, which concluded six months ago.
The large-scale exercise brings together the Army, Navy, and Air Force to conduct simulated offensive operations targeting southern Pakistan. The drills are being held across Gujarat and Rajasthan, with a key focus on the Kutch region, an area seen as a potential flashpoint amid growing tensions over the Sir Creek dispute.
‘Trishul’ aims to evaluate India’s preparedness in a post-Sindoor scenario by integrating advanced weapon systems and joint command operations. The exercise involves special forces commandos, missile units, tanks, warships, and fighter jets, including Rafale and Sukhoi Su-30 aircraft, which will simulate offensive strikes deep into enemy territory.
Senior defence sources confirmed that the exercise is designed to “send a strong message” to Pakistan, reaffirming India’s resolve to defend its borders and respond decisively to any provocation.
Sir Creek tensions rise
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh recently warned Pakistan against making any attempt to illegally claim India’s share of Sir Creek, a narrow and disputed water channel between the Rann of Kutch (India) and Sindh (Pakistan). The Minister cautioned that any such move would invite a response that could “change history and geography.”
Rajnath Singh also highlighted Pakistan’s recent expansion of military infrastructure in and around Sir Creek, including bunkers, radars, and forward operating bases (FOBs) capable of launching drones and infantry operations.
Adding to the tension, Pakistan Navy Chief Admiral Naveed Ashraf paid unannounced visits to forward posts in the Sir Creek area last week. During his visit, he vowed to defend “every inch of our maritime borders, from Sir Creek to Jiwani,” remarks that reportedly put Indian defence planners on alert.
Indian forces in action
Under Exercise Trishul, the Indian Army has deployed T-90 battle tanks, BrahMos missile units, and Akash air defence systems, which were instrumental during Operation Sindoor. The indigenously built Prachand attack helicopter has also been inducted into the drills.
The Indian Air Force (IAF) has deployed Rafale and Sukhoi Su-30 fighter jets along with Heron and Sea Guardian drones for surveillance and precision targeting.
The Indian Navy is participating with Kolkata-class destroyers, Nilgiri-class frigates, and various fast-attack crafts to strengthen maritime security and joint amphibious operations.
Elite forces, including the Army’s Para SF, the Navy’s MARCOS (Marine Commandos), and the IAF’s Garud commandos, are also part of the joint training to enhance interoperability in counter-terrorism, amphibious, and air-assault missions.
Pakistan shuts airspace in response
In a significant move ahead of the exercise, Pakistan’s aviation authorities issued a NOTAM (Notice to Airmen) restricting several central and southern air traffic routes for 48 hours from Thursday morning. Hours later, Islamabad expanded the airspace restrictions to cover most of its territory, a step viewed as a reaction to India’s large-scale deployment under Trishul.
India, too, issued a NOTAM restricting its airspace up to 28,000 feet from midnight October 30 to 11.59 pm November 10, coinciding with the exercise period.
According to defence officials, Trishul demonstrates India’s “joint operational capability” and serves as a strategic message to Pakistan that any hostile activity will be met with a firm and unified response.
- With inputs from agencies
