Countdown begins for Gaganshakti-2024, a crucial 10-day wargame aimed at testing the Indian Air Force’s (IAF) preparedness to counter potential threats from both Pakistan and China simultaneously. This upcoming exercise is expected to surpass the scale of the 2018 all-air force drill, which saw the participation of nearly 1150 aircraft.
Gaganshakti-2024 seeks to evaluate integrated war-fighting strategies and tactics in collaboration with the Indian Army and the Indian Navy.
Following the aftermath of Operation Balakot and subsequent skirmishes with the Pakistan Air Force (PAF), the IAF has strengthened its arsenal with advanced weaponry. This includes the induction of French Rafale fighter jets, indigenous Light Combat Helicopters (LCH) like Prachand, and C-295 transport aircraft. The integration of BrahMos supersonic cruise missiles with Sukhoi fighter jets, along with the addition of Meteor beyond-visual-range air-to-air missiles (BVRAAM) to the Rafale fleet, has significantly enhanced the IAF’s combat capabilities.
Furthermore, the acquisition of Russian S-400 surface-to-air missiles and the indigenous Astra Beyond Visual Range (BVR) Air-to-air missile has augmented the IAF’s air defence capabilities. The deployment of the LCA ‘Tejas’ aircraft, particularly along the western and northern frontiers, underscores India’s commitment to leveraging indigenous technology for defence preparedness.
NOTAM
With Gaganshakti-2024 set to commence from April 1st to 10th, 2024, a Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) issued by the IAF hints at the extensive scope of the wargames.
Strained Relations with China
Against the backdrop of strained relations with China, intensified by clashes in the Galwan Valley, the IAF’s swift response underscores the importance of readiness and preparedness in safeguarding national interests.
Deployments such as the Light Combat Helicopter (LCH) in Eastern Ladakh and Rafale jets conducting long-duration flights in the Indian Ocean Region demonstrate the IAF’s proactive stance in countering regional threats. The impending wargames are expected to highlight network-centric operations, incorporating unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and swarm drones, in line with evolving combat doctrines.
Gaganshakti-2024 follows in the footsteps of Vayu Shakti, a mega firepower demonstration conducted by the IAF in the Thar desert, and precedes Tarang Shakti, the IAF’s first multinational exercise slated for August. With participation from allies such as the US, Germany, France, Australia, and neighbouring countries, Tarang Shakti underscores India’s commitment to strengthening defence cooperation and interoperability.
Background
Since the landmark Brasstacks exercise in 1987, India has made significant strides in military preparedness, transitioning from defensive posturing to a more assertive stance in safeguarding its national interests. Gaganshakti-2024 serves as a testament to India’s evolving defence capabilities and its resolve to meet emerging security challenges head-on.