Exercise 'Aakraman': Indian Air Force conducts drills involving Rafales, Su-30s

The Indian Air Force on Thursday (April 24) was carrying out major drills simulating attacks on mountain, ground targets. The drills involved the IAF’s mainstream fighter jets, and the fleet was led by the Rafale combat aircraft.

Notably, the IAF currently operates two squadrons of the Rafale aircraft, one based out of Ambala air base and the other in West Bengal.

“The cutting-edge technology fighter jets are carrying out complex missions involving ground attack and electronic warfare drills,” defence sources were quoted by news agency ANI as saying.

“The assets of the Indian Air Force have been moved from multiple airbases, including from the eastern side,” the sources added.

The IAF has been conducting intensive training for ground attack missions in both plains and mountainous terrain, according to sources.

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This comes amid rising tensions with Pakistan following the recent Pahalgam terror attack.

The IAF holds a significant edge in the region thanks to advanced weapons like the Meteor air-to-air missiles, and long-range, high-speed, low-drag missiles such as Rampage and Rocks. The ongoing exercise is being closely observed by Air Headquarters, with elite “Top Gun” pilots participating under the supervision of highly qualified instructors.

This drill echoes the IAF’s powerful role in the 2019 Balakot strikes after the Pulwama terror attack. Since then, the Air Force has significantly enhanced its capabilities by inducting Rafale fighter jets, which have strengthened its strategic advantage.

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Alongside these, it has added force multipliers like the S-400 air defence system — a major asset in countering airborne threats, including enemy surveillance and control aircraft.

Pakistan holds firing drills, tests missile

Earlier, Pakistan issued a notification announcing it will conduct a surface-to-surface missile test off the Karachi coast.

The announcement came after Pakistani military held firing drills at Tilla Range, which experts see as a show of strength.

While Pakistan denies any role in the attack, global pressure is growing on Islamabad.

Indian defence agencies are keeping a close watch on the situation, especially given the current security concerns, defence sources told ANI.

(With inputs from agencies)