22 July 2025 : After the recent cross-border skirmishes between India and Pakistan, both nations are once again engaging in strategic “shadow boxing” against each other. As part of this, both countries have issued NOTAMs (Notices to Airmen) to reserve airspace near their respective borders in order to conduct air force exercises.
The Indian Air Force’s South Western Air Command is set to carry out air combat drills from July 23 to July 25 in the Rajasthan-Gujarat region, close to the international border. In response, Pakistan has issued NOTAMs for its central region until July 23 and for its southern region for July 22-23.
It’s worth noting that in May, there was a four-day intense conflict between the two nations. The confrontation began on May 7, after India launched precise strikes on four terrorist hideouts and five terror camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK). India named this mission Operation Sindoor. India clarified that its sole aim was to destroy terrorist infrastructure, but Pakistan retaliated with drone and missile attacks, targeting Indian Air Force bases, military installations, and even some civilian areas.
In response, the Indian Air Force struck at least nine Pakistani airbases and three radar sites, some located near Pakistan’s nuclear facilities and command-and-control structures. India used fighter jets such as the Su-30MKI, Rafale, and Mirage-2000. The attacks involved precision missiles like BrahMos, Crystal Maze-2, Rampage, and SCALP, all executed with high accuracy on predetermined targets.
Now, with both nations once again blocking airspace near their borders for aerial drills, it is evident that tensions remain high. Both sides continue to closely monitor each other and display their strategic strength despite recent clashes.
Summary:
Even after Operation Sindoor’s success, India and Pakistan remain on edge, exchanging military signals and airspace NOTAMs, reflecting ongoing border tensions and strategic rivalry.