Indian Air Force to Display Combat Power in Siliguri ‘Chicken’s Neck’ Corridor
Large-scale exercise to feature Rafale, Su-30MKI, Mirage-2000, Tejas, Jaguars, and BrahMos systems
Siliguri, November 10:
In a powerful demonstration of military readiness, the Indian Air Force (IAF) is set to conduct a high-intensity combat exercise in the Siliguri Corridor, popularly known as the Chicken’s Neck, between November 13 and 20, 2025. This narrow stretch of land connects India’s northeast with the rest of the country and lies close to the China, Bangladesh, and Nepal borders — making it one of India’s most strategically significant locations.
The upcoming drill will showcase India’s advanced fighter fleet, including Rafale, Sukhoi-30 MKI, Mirage-2000, Tejas, and Jaguar aircraft. The operation will also integrate T-90 battle tanks, Prachand combat helicopters, Akash surface-to-air missile batteries, and the BrahMos supersonic cruise missile. Various Air Defense and Unified Command systems will be tested for operational coordination.
Officials confirmed that the IAF has issued a NOTAM (Notice to Airmen) across the northeastern skies to ensure the safety of civilian aviation during the exercise. Consequently, some commercial flight routes are expected to face temporary restrictions or diversions. The key objectives include testing joint air-land coordination, rapid response mechanisms, and the effectiveness of cyber and electronic warfare capabilities in real-time conditions.
Geopolitical Context: Bangladesh Under Watch
The timing of this military drill is seen as significant amid the shifting diplomatic dynamics with Bangladesh. Following the exit of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, the interim government led by Mohammad Yunus has taken several steps that have raised concerns in New Delhi.
Recently, Yunus reportedly shared a disputed map depicting India’s northeastern boundaries inaccurately and initiated strategic dialogues with China, which analysts interpret as an attempt to draw attention to the Siliguri Corridor’s vulnerability. Indian defense observers view the IAF exercise as not only a military preparedness measure but also a strong strategic signal that India will firmly protect its territorial integrity and regional interests.
Western Front in Focus: Operation Trishul 2025
At the same time, India’s Army, Navy, and Air Force are jointly conducting Operation Trishul 2025 along the western borders. Commenced on October 30, this large-scale exercise covers Gujarat and Rajasthan, particularly the Kutch and Sir Creek sectors — areas known for past confrontations with Pakistan.
The tri-service operation is testing real-time coordination, joint communication systems, and multi-domain warfare capabilities. A range of advanced platforms — including T-90 tanks, Prachand helicopters, Akash missiles, BrahMos systems, Rafale and Su-30 MKI fighters, Sea Guardian and Heron drones — are deployed for this mission. On the maritime front, Kolkata-class and Nilgiri-class warships are stationed along India’s western coastline.
Defense analysts describe Trishul 2025 as the largest joint military operation since Operation Sindhur, aimed at enhancing interoperability and synchronized combat readiness across the three branches of India’s armed forces.
Strategic Outlook
Together, the Siliguri Air Exercise and Operation Trishul 2025 reflect India’s expanding focus on simultaneous defense preparedness across both eastern and western frontiers. These coordinated maneuvers demonstrate India’s commitment to strengthening joint-force integration, improving deterrence capabilities, and reinforcing its strategic posture amid an increasingly complex regional environment.
