New Delhi: The Andaman And Nicobar Command aerial firing exercise began near Sri Vijaya Puram in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands on October 20, 2026. The three-day military activity is scheduled to continue until October 22.
The command has issued a Notice to Mariners and Airmen (NOTMAR), warning ships and aircraft to stay away from the designated area during the exercise. The activity is aimed at supporting military training and defence preparedness in this strategically important island region.
Details of Andaman And Nicobar Command Aerial Firing Exercise
The exercise is scheduled between 10:00 AM and 12:30 PM from October 20 to October 22, according to the reports.
The safety notice asks mariners and airmen to avoid the specified area during the announced timings. Such warnings help reduce the risk of civilian vessels or aircraft entering an area where military activities may be taking place. The Andaman and Nicobar Command has not publicly disclosed all the operational details of this particular exercise.
About the Andaman And Nicobar Command
The Andaman and Nicobar Command (ANC) is India’s only integrated tri-services command. It brings together elements of the Indian Army, Indian Navy and Indian Air Force, with coordination involving the Coast Guard where required.
Its location gives India an important military presence in the eastern Indian Ocean. The islands are close to major international shipping routes and the approaches to the Strait of Malacca. The command supports maritime security, joint military operations and the protection of India’s interests in the surrounding waters.
Navy And Air Force May Participate In The Andaman And Nicobar Command Aerial Firing Exercise
According to the report, aircraft and other assets from the Indian Navy and Indian Air Force could take part in the exercise. However, the participating platforms and weapons have not been officially confirmed in the available announcement.
The report mentions that aerial firing exercises can involve aircraft-mounted cannons and, depending on the activity, the testing or use of missiles and rockets. These details should not be treated as confirmation that every system will be used in the current drills.
Such exercises help military personnel practise operating equipment, coordinate missions and improve readiness for demanding operational situations.
Fighter Aircraft And Maritime Surveillance Capabilities
The report also describes the wider air and maritime capabilities used by Indian forces in the Andaman and Nicobar region.
These include Su-30MKI fighter aircraft operated by the Indian Air Force and MiG-29K fighter aircraft operated by the Indian Navy. Their roles can include air defence, maritime operations and support for joint exercises.
The Indian Navy’s P-8I aircraft provides long-range maritime surveillance. Airborne early warning systems and aerial refuelling can also support operations by helping aircraft monitor activity, coordinate missions and remain airborne for longer periods. However, the available information does not confirm which of these aircraft or capabilities will participate in the October 20–22 exercise.
What is the Importance Of The Andaman And Nicobar Islands
The Andaman and Nicobar Islands occupy an important position in the eastern Indian Ocean, near key international sea routes.
A strong and coordinated military presence in this region helps India monitor maritime activity and respond to potential security challenges. Regular training also allows different services to practise working together. The islands’ location makes them relevant to India’s wider maritime security planning, particularly around the approaches to the Strait of Malacca.
Read also: Why Andaman And Nicobar Command Matters For India’s Future Maritime Strategy
FAQs
The reported exercise is taking place near Sri Vijaya Puram in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. Mariners and airmen have been advised to avoid the designated area during the notified timings.
The exercise is scheduled from October 20 to October 22, 2026, between 10:00 AM and 12:30 PM, according to the reported NOTMAR.
The participating aircraft have not been officially confirmed in the available announcement. The report discusses platforms such as the Su-30MKI and MiG-29K, but their participation in this specific exercise remains unconfirmed.
