Pakistan scrambled fighter aircraft from multiple bases just minutes before India activated its NOTAM for the large-scale tri-service military exercise, “Trishul”. Sources indicate that jets from Shorkot, Risalpur and Mianwali took to the skies between 3:30 am and 6:00 am on Thursday, in what analysts view as a rapid response triggered by rising strategic anxiety across the border.

The sudden surge in Pakistani air activity coincided with Islamabad imposing airspace restrictions across central and southern corridors, reportedly to secure sensitive defence zones close to its frontier. This airspace clampdown came hours after India officially announced its NOTAM, signalling the commencement of its high-intensity drills along the Rann of Kutch region in Gujarat.

India's Exercise Trishul, spanning October 30 to November 10, marks one of the year’s most expansive joint military operations. The Indian Army has deployed more than 20,000 soldiers along with battle tanks, howitzers, missile units and attack helicopters. In parallel, the Indian Air Force has initiated Exercise Mahagujraj, mobilizing frontline Rafales, Su-30MKIs, airborne warning and control aircraft, mid-air refuellers and remotely piloted assets designed for precision and surveillance missions. Meanwhile, the Indian Navy has stationed frigates and destroyers along the Gujarat coastline to strengthen maritime readiness and coastal security.

Also Read: Bangladesh-Pakistan Diplomatic Meet Draws Controversy Over Coffee Table Book

At the heart of this strategic deployment lies Sir Creek, the 96-kilometre disputed marshland region between India’s Gujarat and Pakistan’s Sindh province — a long-standing territorial flashpoint. With its challenging terrain and sensitive geopolitics, Sir Creek remains a critical zone for monitoring force mobility and maritime boundaries, making it a natural focus for such high-level drills.

Pakistan’s swift jet scramble has been interpreted by defence observers as “panic readiness,” signalling heightened concern regarding India’s expanding military posture and joint-force coordination. As Exercise Trishul progresses over the coming days, it is expected to rigorously assess inter-service synchronization, rapid mobilization, and combat preparedness in one of the subcontinent’s most strategically contested regions.

Also Read: President Murmu’s Flight with “Captured” Pilot Shivangi Singh Silences Pakistan’s Propaganda