In a decisive show of strength following the devastating Pahalgam terror attack that claimed 26 lives, the Indian Air Force (IAF) has conducted a high-level military drill named 'Exercise Aakraman' near the Line of Control (LoC). The exercise took place under heightened security conditions and amidst rising tensions between India and Pakistan.

Exercise Aakraman, which translates to “Attack”, involved several frontline combat aircraft, including Rafale fighter jets, and was carried out in the central sector, covering both plains and mountainous terrain. These combat operations simulate rapid-strike missions, including deep ground attacks, intended to improve tactical preparedness under real combat-like scenarios. The IAF reportedly operated two squadrons of Rafale jets, currently stationed at Ambala and Hashimara airbases.

The exercise, held late Thursday night and early Friday morning, was not limited to fighter aircraft alone. A fleet of transport aircraft and Airborne Warning and Control System (AWACS)-equipped surveillance planes participated in the manoeuvres, keeping a close eye on the enemy airspace and troop movements. In parallel, Pakistani fighter jets were also spotted across the border, adding to the tense atmosphere along the LoC.

Full Military Readiness After Pahalgam Attack

The April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam, which resulted in the deaths of at least 26 people, mostly unarmed tourists, has escalated tensions significantly. The attack is regarded as one of the deadliest since the abrogation of Article 370 in 2019 and has prompted all three branches of the Indian Armed Forces—Army, Navy, and Air Force—to go on high alert.

In the aftermath of the attack, the Army and paramilitary units have been conducting rigorous combing operations across Jammu and Kashmir. Simultaneously, aerial patrols by Rafale jets have increased significantly, particularly along sensitive areas of the Pakistani border. These patrols are meant to both deter further cross-border incursions and provide real-time situational intelligence.

Ground troops, meanwhile, are involved in intense surveillance and area domination patrols, especially in the border villages and regions identified as terrorist infiltration routes. Known terror hideouts are being systematically destroyed using precision strikes and coordinated firepower from both the Army and the Air Force.

Army Chief Visits Srinagar Amid Rising Hostilities

In another significant development, Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi arrived in Srinagar on Friday, underscoring the seriousness of the situation. He was received by Lieutenant General Prashant Srivastava, the 15 Corps Commander, and the Victor Force Commander.

General Dwivedi's itinerary includes a high-level strategic meeting with senior military officers and intelligence heads. This review meeting is aimed at re-evaluating deployment strategies, threat perception, and counter-terrorism plans along the LoC and internal areas prone to militant activity. Special emphasis is being laid on enhancing coordination between intelligence networks and ground forces to proactively neutralise potential threats.

Post the meeting, General Dwivedi is scheduled to visit Pahalgam, specifically the ambush site, to get first-hand insights into the attack. Sources suggest that the visit is also meant to boost the morale of the deployed troops and ensure immediate action against those responsible.

Details of the Pahalgam Attack

The terror attack in Pahalgam took place on the evening of April 22, targeting tourist buses that were returning from a sightseeing trip. The attack is suspected to have been carried out by a group of foreign militants who had infiltrated the valley. While 26 were killed, over a dozen others were injured, several of them critically.

The location, a well-known tourist hub, has generally remained peaceful over the last few years, especially since the central government's renewed focus on development and tourism promotion in the region. The sheer scale and brutality of the attack have sent shockwaves across the country, drawing condemnation from both domestic and international quarters.

Security agencies have since been working around the clock to identify the attackers, their hideouts, and support networks, believed to have been operating from across the border. Meanwhile, visuals from the ground show deserted streets, blocked roads, and tight security checks, especially around Srinagar, Anantnag, and Pulwama.

Strategic Message to Adversaries

The Indian government’s decision to conduct Exercise Aakraman so soon after the terror attack sends a clear message to hostile forces. This exercise, combined with the increased deployment of combat-ready aircraft and surveillance systems, reflects India's zero-tolerance approach towards terrorism and its readiness to respond to any provocations.

The participation of high-tech aircraft, such as the Rafale and AWACS, highlights India’s growing strategic capabilities in conducting precision airstrikes, real-time surveillance, and multi-domain warfare—from land to air to cyberspace.

Meanwhile, the external affairs ministry is also believed to be engaging with international partners, urging for global cooperation in countering cross-border terrorism, and highlighting Pakistan's role in harbouring militants.

Conclusion

With military operations intensifying and diplomatic efforts being strengthened, the situation in Jammu and Kashmir is being closely monitored. The Indian Armed Forces, especially the Air Force with Exercise Aakraman, have demonstrated their operational readiness and strategic deterrence in the face of terror threats. As the hunt for the attackers continues, national security remains a top priority, and the Indian military is prepared to take swift and decisive action against any enemy provocations.

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