The Indian Air Force (IAF) has kicked off a massive operational readiness exercise named ‘Aakraman’ (Attack), spanning across the central sector of India. This large-scale military drill underscores India’s growing aerial combat power and strategic preparedness, with a central focus on its elite Rafale fighter fleet, precision-guided weapons, and electronic warfare capabilities.
Rafale Jets Take the Lead in Air Dominance
At the heart of Exercise Aakraman are the IAF’s frontline Rafale fighter jets, which are conducting complex and multi-layered missions. These 4.5-generation combat aircraft are deployed from two main squadrons — one stationed at Ambala Air Force Station in Haryana and the other at Hashimara in West Bengal.
The exercise highlights Rafale’s cutting-edge technology, allowing the IAF to perform ground attack operations, electronic warfare simulations, air dominance missions, and real-time battlefield management. These jets are executing high-intensity strikes across various terrain types — from flatlands to mountainous regions — showcasing the aircraft’s superior adaptability and firepower.
Advanced Mission Profiles and Weapon Systems
According to reliable defence sources, the Rafale fleet is currently carrying out complex combat operations, involving:
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Precision ground strikes
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Electronic jamming and disruption
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Mid-air refueling missions
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Simulated attacks on enemy radars and airbases
The aircraft are armed with Meteor air-to-air missiles, considered among the most lethal in their class globally. With a range exceeding 150 kilometers, these missiles give the IAF an edge in beyond-visual-range aerial combat.
In addition, the Rafale jets are equipped with Rampage and Rocks — long-range, precision strike missiles capable of hitting high-value ground targets with pinpoint accuracy. This mix of air superiority and ground attack systems significantly boosts India’s combat readiness in the South Asian theatre.
Full-Scale Mobilization and Tactical Repositioning
Exercise Aakraman is not limited to a single geographic region. Assets from multiple airbases — including those from the eastern command — have been tactically repositioned to support simulation-based warfare scenarios and boost strategic coordination.
This wide-scale mobilization tests the IAF’s ability to deploy its resources quickly across zones during emergency situations, be it wartime escalation, surgical strikes, or coordinated defensive maneuvers.
Top IAF Pilots in Action
Among those taking part are India’s finest fighter pilots, informally known as the “Top Guns” of the IAF. These ace pilots are flying challenging sorties under the close observation of Air Headquarters and high-ranking instructors, ensuring top-tier performance and assessment during every mission.
Their expertise stems from years of operational experience, including high-stakes engagements such as the Balakot airstrikes post the 2019 Pulwama terror attack, where India showcased its long-range offensive capabilities using Mirage 2000 jets. With the addition of Rafale, the IAF’s lethality, range, and survivability have reached new heights.
Strategic Importance Amid Rising Tensions
The timing of Exercise Aakraman holds deep strategic significance. It comes just days after the recent terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, which escalated tensions between India and Pakistan. By conducting a visible, high-powered military drill, the IAF is sending a clear message about India’s readiness and deterrence capabilities.
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Integration of Force Multipliers: The S-400 Triumph
Apart from airborne operations, the IAF is also integrating newly acquired force multipliers into the exercise. This includes the formidable S-400 Triumph air defence system, sourced from Russia.
The S-400 can track and eliminate multiple aerial threats, including enemy fighter aircraft, stealth drones, and even airborne early warning and control (AEW&C) systems, offering a near-impenetrable defense shield over Indian airspace.
Versatile Terrain Combat Drills
IAF personnel are rehearsing high-intensity operations over a diverse landscape. From plains to hills and semi-urban zones, Exercise Aakraman aims to test India’s readiness to strike anywhere, anytime, under any geographic condition.
This level of tactical preparedness is crucial in modern hybrid warfare scenarios, where terrain flexibility and real-time coordination determine the success of a mission.
