The Indian Air Force (IAF) has been conducting a large-scale military exercise codenamed ‘Aakraman’ (meaning “Attack”) in the central sector, prominently featuring its elite fighter fleet of Rafale and Su-30MKI aircraft. The high-intensity drills, which began earlier this week, focus on simulating precision strikes on mountainous terrain and ground targets while incorporating advanced electronic warfare techniques.
Multi-Dimensional Combat Operations
In a display of strategic air power, IAF’s cutting-edge fighter jets have been executing complex missions that mirror real combat scenarios. Defense sources revealed that the exercise involves extensive ground attack simulations across diverse terrains, with special emphasis on high-altitude mountain targets and electronic countermeasure operations.
“Exercise Aakraman represents one of our most comprehensive combat readiness drills of 2025,” said a senior IAF official familiar with the operations. “The fighter jets are executing intricate mission profiles that test our pilots’ capabilities across the full spectrum of modern aerial warfare.”
The drills have seen assets redeployed from multiple air bases, particularly from eastern sectors, demonstrating the IAF’s ability to rapidly concentrate air power from across its operational network. This strategic mobility is crucial for responding to contingencies along various sectors of India’s borders.
Elite Assets in Action
The exercise is being spearheaded by the IAF’s prized Rafale fighter jets from the two operational squadrons-the 17 “Golden Arrows” Squadron based in Ambala, Haryana, and the 101 “Falcons” Squadron stationed at Hashimara in West Bengal. These 4.5-generation fighters, acquired from France, represent the technological spearhead of India’s air combat capabilities.
Supporting the Rafales are the versatile Su-30MKI aircraft, which form the backbone of the IAF’s fighter fleet. Together, these platforms have been conducting synchronized operations in day and night conditions, showcasing the force’s all-weather combat potential.
Military analysts note that the exercise demonstrates significant improvements in the IAF’s network-centric warfare capabilities, with aircraft operating in conjunction with force multipliers such as mid-air refuelers and Airborne Warning and Control System (AWACS) platforms.
Advanced Weapons Systems Integration
A notable aspect of Exercise Aakraman is the integration of sophisticated weaponry that enhances the IAF’s strike potential. The Rafales have been operating with their formidable arsenal including Meteor beyond-visual-range air-to-air missiles, which offer an unprecedented no-escape zone against aerial threats.
Additionally, the exercise incorporates precision-guided munitions like the Rampage and Rocks missiles, designed for deep-strike missions against hardened targets. These standoff weapons significantly expand the IAF’s ability to neutralize threats without entering heavily defended airspace.
The S-400 Triumf air defense system, recently inducted into the IAF, also features prominently in the exercise scenario. This advanced Russian-origin system is capable of tracking and neutralizing a wide array of aerial threats, including enemy AWACS platforms that typically operate from safe distances.
Elite Pilots and Close Monitoring
The operations are being executed by the IAF’s top aviators, including elite “Top Gun” pilots specially trained in advanced combat tactics. These exercises are conducted under the close supervision of highly qualified instructors and are being directly monitored by Air Headquarters.
“The level of expertise on display during Exercise Aakraman reflects years of specialized training and operational experience,” noted a defense expert who requested anonymity. “These pilots are demonstrating complex maneuvers and tactical procedures that would be critical in any high-intensity conflict scenario.”
Strategic Context
While defense officials describe Exercise Aakraman as a routine training operation, its timing has drawn significant attention given the heightened tensions between India and Pakistan following the recent Pahalgam terror attack that resulted in 26 civilian casualties.
The exercise bears resemblance to the IAF’s preparation before the 2019 Balakot airstrikes, which were conducted in response to the Pulwama terror attack. During that operation, the IAF deployed Mirage 2000 jets for precision strikes inside Pakistani territory. Since then, India’s aerial warfare capabilities have been substantially enhanced with the induction of Rafale fighters and advanced air defense systems.
Concurrently with the IAF’s Exercise Aakraman, the Indian Navy has demonstrated its operational readiness with the guided-missile destroyer INS Surat successfully test-firing a medium-range surface-to-air missile in the Arabian Sea. This coordinated show of force across military branches signals India’s comprehensive defense preparedness.
Exercise Components and Operational Focus
Defense sources indicate that Exercise Aakraman encompasses several key components:
- Extended-range sorties designed to test the endurance and operational reach of fighter aircraft
- Precision bombing drills on distant targets, simulating deep-strike missions
- Electronic warfare scenarios to practice operating in contested electromagnetic environments
- Rapid redeployment drills between multiple air bases to enhance operational flexibility
- Integrated air defense penetration exercises against simulated enemy air defense networks
The comprehensive nature of the exercise highlights the IAF’s evolving doctrine that emphasizes flexibility, precision, and technological superiority in modern aerial warfare.
Looking Forward
As Exercise Aakraman continues, it represents not only a demonstration of India’s current military capabilities but also a forward-looking approach to addressing emerging security challenges in the region. The IAF’s investment in advanced platforms, precision weapons, and sophisticated training continues to enhance India’s position as a dominant air power in South Asia.
With these operations, the Indian Air Force reaffirms its commitment to maintaining combat readiness amid evolving regional security dynamics, while simultaneously advancing its tactical and operational expertise in complex combat environments.
