New Delhi

The Indian Air Force (IAF) is engaged in Exercise Aakraman (attack), a major operation taking place over an expansive region in the central sector. Spearheading the drill are the force’s frontline fighter aircraft, most notably the Rafale combat jets.

The IAF maintains two Rafale squadrons, strategically stationed at Ambala and Hashimara in West Bengal.

Defence sources told ANI, “The cutting-edge technology fighter jets are carrying out complex missions involving ground attack and electronic warfare drills. The assets of the Air Force have been moved from multiple airbases, including from the eastern side.”

These complex drills are designed to simulate ground attack operations in diverse terrains — from vast plains to rugged mountainous zones. The IAF, the sources confirmed to the news agency, is refining its tactics to operate effectively across all geographies.

With the induction of advanced weaponry such as Meteor air-to-air missiles, along with long-range, high-speed, low-drag munitions like the Rampage and Rocks, the IAF has significantly bolstered its combat advantage. This cutting-edge arsenal gives the IAF a decisive edge over regional adversaries in South Asia.

The timing of this exercise is particularly noteworthy, as it comes amid heightened tensions between India and Pakistan following the Pahalgam attack.

Oversight of the operation is rigorous, with the entire drill closely monitored by Air Headquarters. Participating are elite Top Gun pilots of the IAF, engaging in the rhetorical exercise under the watchful eyes of highly qualified instructors.

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This is not the first time the IAF has demonstrated its operational readiness. In February 2019, it played a critical role in the post-Pulwama strike inside Pakistan, a mission that underscored its offensive capabilities.

Since then, the IAF has inducted the formidable Rafale jets, enhancing its combat superiority in the region. While the Mirage 2000 was used in 2019, the force has since augmented its strength with force multipliers such as the S-400 air defence system — a strategic asset capable of countering adversary airborne early warning and control systems.