ISLAMABAD:India has issued Notices to Airmen (NOTAMs) alerting aviationauthorities to potential missile tests along its eastern seaboard, raisingconcerns about heightened military activities in the region. The warningsspecify restricted airspace off Visakhapatnam from December 1 to 4,covering a range of 1,120 kilometers, and off Odisha from December 6 to 8,extending up to 1,480 kilometers. These measures are typically implementedto ensure safety during live-fire exercises or weapon trials, preventingaccidental incursions by civilian or commercial aircraft.
Analysts suggest these tests could involve advanced ballistic or cruisemissiles, part of India’s ongoing efforts to bolster its defensecapabilities amid evolving geopolitical dynamics. The Indian Navy andDefence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) are likely overseeingthe operations, which may include systems like the BrahMos or indigenousdevelopments. Such activities underscore New Delhi’s focus on strategicdeterrence, particularly in the context of maritime security in the Bay ofBengal. Regional neighbors, including Pakistan, are monitoring thedevelopments closely, as they could impact navigational routes andinternational relations.
The NOTAMs come at a time when India is expanding its missile arsenal, withrecent advancements in hypersonic and long-range technologies. Expertspoint out that the chosen locations—Visakhapatnam, a key naval base, andOdisha’s integrated test range—have been used for previous launches, suchas the Agni series. This pattern indicates a structured testing schedule,possibly aimed at validating improvements in accuracy and payload delivery.While no official statement has been released by the Indian Ministry ofDefence, the alerts have prompted international aviation bodies to rerouteflights, minimizing disruptions to global air traffic.
Concerns over environmental and safety implications have also surfaced,with coastal communities potentially affected by fallout or restrictedaccess. The tests highlight the delicate balance of power in South Asia.Observers note that such demonstrations serve as a signal of militaryreadiness without direct confrontation.
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In broader terms, these missile tests align with India’s ambitions toachieve self-reliance in defense manufacturing under the Atmanirbhar Bharatinitiative. Collaborations with international partners for technologytransfer continue, enhancing capabilities against potential threats. As thedates approach, global attention will focus on the outcomes, which couldinfluence future arms control discussions in the region. The internationalcommunity urges restraint to avoid miscalculations that might destabilizethe area.Source: www.thehindu.com”>https://www.thehindu.com