©Tim Felce (Airwolfhound) • CC BY-SA 2.0
IAF Demonstrates High-Altitude Target Neutralisation Using Rafale Jets
The Indian Air Force (IAF) has successfully demonstrated its capability to neutralise high-altitude spy balloon-type targets at over 55,000 feet along India’s eastern front, according to a recent report by news agency ANI. The operation, carried out under the Eastern Air Command’s area of responsibility, involved the use of a Rafale fighter jet and was completed a few months ago.
IAF Targets High-Altitude Spy Balloons
The IAF conducted this exercise using a balloon equipped with a payload, similar in function to the Chinese spy balloon shot down by the US Air Force off the coast of South Carolina in early 2023. Although smaller in size, the balloon served as an effective target to test the IAF’s preparedness. The Rafale fighter jet engaged the target at an altitude exceeding 55,000 feet, using a missile from the IAF’s inventory.
Sources revealed that the exercise aimed to enhance IAF’s operational readiness against aerial surveillance threats. The exercise took place when current Chief of Air Staff, Air Chief Marshal AP Singh, was serving as Vice Chief of Air Staff, and Air Marshal SP Dharkar, now the Vice Chief, was overseeing the Eastern Air Command. The operation was directed by Air Marshal Surat Singh, currently the Eastern Air Commander, who was then the Director General of Air Operations.
Building SOPs for Aerial Threats
The IAF’s response comes in the wake of increasing incidents of surveillance balloons being spotted globally. Following the US incident in 2023, similar balloon sightings were reported near India’s Andaman and Nicobar Islands, although no action was taken at the time. The recent exercise underscores the IAF’s commitment to developing and implementing standard operating procedures (SOPs) to address such threats in the future.
The IAF aims to ensure quick and effective response measures for any potential high-altitude aerial intrusions, strengthening India’s air defence capabilities and protecting its airspace from new-age surveillance techniques.
