IAF Conducts Major Exercise in Central Zone Amidst Rising Pakistan Tensions, Rafale Jets Participate

Following the terrorist attack in Pahalgam, all three branches of India’s armed forces are on high alert. Amidst this heightened state, the Indian Air Force (IAF) conducted a significant war exercise in the Central Zone. This drill is considered particularly crucial given the escalating tensions with Pakistan.

In a show of strength, the IAF conducted a large-scale strike exercise primarily in Madhya Pradesh, located within the Central Zone. The drill saw a fleet of the IAF’s frontline fighter aircraft, spearheaded by the advanced Rafale jets, participating in complex missions. The exercise focused on ground attack and electronic warfare drills across various terrains, including plains and mountainous regions. The Indian Air Force currently operates two squadrons of Rafale aircraft, based at Ambala and Hashimara. These state-of-the-art aircraft are equipped with potent long-range missiles like the Meteor air-to-air missiles and Rampage, designed specifically for ground attack and air-to-air combat roles.

Defence sources indicated that the primary objective of this exercise was to practice complex missions in diverse operational areas. Key IAF fighter aircraft tested their proficiency in ground attack and electronic warfare scenarios. The drill involved the force’s top gun pilots undergoing high-standard training, which is expected to further strengthen the IAF’s power in the region.

This exercise comes at a time of increased tension along the border between India and Pakistan, particularly exacerbated by the recent terrorist attack in Pahalgam. The Indian Air Force is closely monitoring the situation and ensuring that the force maintains its operational edge. Recalling the events following the 2019 Pulwama attack, the IAF successfully utilized Mirage 2000 aircraft for strikes inside Pakistan. Now, the IAF has incorporated Rafale jets into its arsenal and acquired powerful new systems like the S-400 air defence system. These new acquisitions significantly enhance the Indian Air Force’s capability to counter enemy air attacks effectively.