India today began Exercise Trishul, a massive 12-day tri-service military exercise involving the Army, Navy, and Air Force. The operation is being held along the Pakistan border, with activities centered in Gujarat and Rajasthan, particularly in the Kutch region — a sensitive zone close to the disputed Sir Creek area.
According to defence officials, Exercise Trishul aims to demonstrate India’s ability to defend its territory and maintain operational readiness in the post-Operation Sindoor environment. The previous operation took place six months ago.
Message to Pakistan
Government sources told NDTV that Trishul is intended to send a strong message to Pakistan, reinforcing that India is fully prepared to protect its borders and respond decisively to any provocation.
Earlier this month, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh warned Pakistan against any attempts to alter the status of the Sir Creek region, stating that such actions would face a response capable of changing “history and geography.”
Singh also highlighted Pakistan’s recent military build-up in the area, including bunkers, radar installations, and forward operating bases (FOBs) capable of launching drones and infantry operations. Pakistan’s Navy Chief, Admiral Naveed Ashraf, recently visited forward posts in Sir Creek and vowed to defend “every inch” of Pakistan’s maritime borders — a move that heightened India’s alert levels.
Forces and Equipment Deployed
Exercise Trishul brings together India’s most advanced military systems and elite units:
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Army: T-90 battle tanks, BrahMos missile units, and Akash air defence systems. The indigenous Prachand attack helicopter has also been deployed.
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Air Force: Rafale and Sukhoi Su-30 fighter jets, along with Sea Guardian and Heron drones, will simulate deep-strike missions.
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Navy: Kolkata-class destroyers, Nilgiri-class frigates, and fast-attack craft are participating in maritime operations.
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Special Forces: The Para SF, MARCOS (Marine Commandos), and Garud Commandos are conducting joint amphibious and counter-terrorism drills.
Pakistan Responds With Airspace Restrictions
Hours before Trishul began, Pakistan temporarily closed multiple airspace sectors, issuing a NOTAM (Notice to Airmen) that initially covered parts of its central and southern regions. The restriction was later expanded to cover most of Pakistan’s airspace.
India also issued its own NOTAM, restricting air traffic up to 28,000 feet from midnight October 30 to November 10, aligning with the exercise timeline.
Strategic Importance of Sir Creek
The Sir Creek estuary separates India’s Gujarat from Pakistan’s Sindh province. The narrow, 96-kilometre-long waterway has long been disputed, with both nations claiming overlapping maritime zones. Control over this area is crucial for fisheries, oil exploration, and maritime security.
Defence analysts say Trishul reflects India’s intent to assert control and enhance deterrence capabilities along its western front.
