Pakistan on Edge as India Launches Massive ‘Trishul’ Tri-Services Exercise; Navy Issues New NOTAM Near Sir Creek

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Islamabad/New Delhi, November 1: Strategic tensions have escalated along the western coast as India commences its large-scale tri-services military exercise ‘Trishul’, designed to enhance coordination among the Army, Navy, and Air Force. The exercise has reportedly triggered alarm in Pakistan, prompting the Pakistan Navy to issue a new NOTAM (Notice to Airmen) and NAVAREA warning near the disputed Sir Creek region in the Arabian Sea, fearing a possible Indian offensive.

According to official defense sources, the Pakistan Navy will conduct live-fire drills and naval exercises from November 2 to 5 near Sir Creek — a region that has long been a maritime flashpoint between the two nations. The alert covers a 135-kilometer-wide maritime zone, with strict warnings for commercial and civilian vessels to steer clear of the area during the exercise.

Heightened Military Activity in the Arabian Sea

Pakistan’s NAVAREA alert, issued immediately after India’s ‘Trishul’ maneuvers began, indicates an unusual rise in its military readiness in the Arabian Sea. Reports suggest that missile and submarine-launched torpedo tests could be conducted during the drill. Over the past several weeks, Pakistan has released multiple NOTAMs and NAVAREA advisories, while also restricting several air and maritime zones between November 1 and November 30, signaling a period of intense military vigilance.

Experts Downplay Attack Fears

While regional observers speculate that Pakistan’s moves reflect fears of a sudden Indian strike, Indian defense experts have dismissed such notions. Former Air Force pilot Vijayendra K. Thakur, speaking to Navbharat Times, explained:

“India’s NOTAMs are routine and usually scheduled around full-moon and new-moon phases for night training. These exercises are conducted considering weather and operational conditions. They are not connected to Sir Creek or any offensive operations.”

He added that India’s Trishul exercise is a routine tri-services drill, aimed at enhancing interoperability, rapid response, and joint warfighting capabilities, rather than projecting aggression.

What Is ‘Exercise Trishul’?

‘Trishul’ is one of India’s largest joint military exercises, specifically structured to strengthen synergy and real-time coordination among its three defense branches. The exercise spans land, air, and sea operations, testing India’s integrated warfighting capabilities across diverse terrains — from deserts to deep-sea zones.

• The Indian Air Force has deployed Rafale, Su-30MKI, RPAs, UAVs, IL-78 mid-air refuelers, and AEW&C systems.
• The Indian Navy has positioned frontline warships, missile destroyers, and submarines for maritime combat training.
• The Indian Army has mobilized nearly 25,000 troops, equipped with main battle tanks, advanced artillery, attack helicopters, and indigenous missile systems.

Strategic Message

Defense analysts interpret ‘Trishul’ as a strategic signal of India’s readiness and integrated defense capability, emphasizing coordination, deterrence, and preparedness amid growing regional tensions.

Headline Summary:
➡ India launches major tri-services exercise ‘Trishul’.
➡ Pakistan issues new NOTAM and NAVAREA alert near Sir Creek.
➡ Live-fire drills by Pakistan Navy scheduled from Nov 2–5.
➡ Indian officials deny any aggressive intent, term exercise routine.
➡ ‘Trishul’ showcases India’s full-spectrum joint operational strength.