Andaman Airspace Closed Till Saturday For Inter-Island Missile Test
India has imposed a temporary closure of airspace over the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, restricting aircraft operations for two days to facilitate an inter-island missile test. The decision, communicated through a Notice to Airmen (NOTAM), has raised questions about the strategic implications of the exercise, particularly amid ongoing tensions with Pakistan.
According to the NOTAM issued by the Indian Air Force, the airspace above the Andaman and Nicobar Islands will be restricted between 01:30 and 04:30 UTC (7:00 AM to 10:00 AM IST) on May 23 and 24. This closure applies to a corridor of approximately 500 km, covering parts of the Bay of Bengal and Andaman Sea. During this period, no aircraft will be permitted to operate over the restricted zone at any altitude.
The Andaman and Nicobar Command (ANC), a tri-services command under the Indian Defence Ministry, has confirmed that the exercise is part of routine testing procedures. An official statement confirmed that a high-altitude weapon test was conducted on May 23, with a similar test scheduled for May 24. The ANC, which oversees military operations in the region, has a history of conducting such tests, including the recent BrahMos missile test in January.
The timing of the exercise has drawn attention, as it coincides with a period of relative peace along the India-Pakistan border. However, the government has reiterated that Operation Sindoor, a recent military operation targeting terror infrastructure, is still active. This operation, launched on May 7 in response to the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack, has led to significant military actions by India in the region.
India’s air defense systems, including the Akashteer air defense control system, have played a critical role in countering threats. The system successfully intercepted a barrage of missiles and drones during the May 9-10 conflict, when Pakistan launched a large-scale attack on Indian military and civilian targets. The Indian response included precision strikes on Pakistani military installations, resulting in substantial damage to key infrastructure.
Following the May 7 strikes, Pakistan attempted to retaliate on May 8, 9, and 10, but these efforts were met with a strong Indian response. The conflict led to a temporary ceasefire, announced by Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri on May 10, which came into effect immediately. The agreement to halt all military actions on land, air, and sea has been a key development in the region.
The missile test in the Andaman Islands is part of India’s broader efforts to enhance its military capabilities, particularly in the context of regional security. The BrahMos missile, which has been credited with bolstering India’s air defense, is a key component of this strategy. The recent test in the Andaman region underscores India’s commitment to maintaining a strong and ready military presence in the region.
As the airspace restrictions continue, the focus remains on ensuring the safety of civilian and military operations in the area. The Indian government has emphasized that such exercises are conducted in accordance with national security protocols and are necessary for maintaining readiness and preparedness in the face of potential threats.