India has closed airspace above the Bay of Bengal and Andaman Sea around the Andaman and Nicobar Islands on May 23 and 24, between 7 am and 10 am IST, in what is a probable inter-island missile test. Under a Notice to Airmen (NOTAM), authorities will not allow any flying over the area within this time frame.
A senior official confirmed the development to PTI, saying, “We have successfully done a high-altitude weapon test today and tomorrow a similar test will be done. This is a routine practice here in Andaman and Nicobar Islands as we have done similar tests in the past also.”
The test corridor measures roughly 500 km, as explained in excerpts from the NOTAM. Though routine, the timing of the tests holds much importance in light of the increased regional security dynamics recently observed.
STORY | Andaman airspace closed for 3 hours for high altitude weapon test
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— Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) May 23, 2025
Strategic Theatre Amid Ongoing Military Operations
The Andaman and Nicobar Command (ANC), which is India’s sole tri-services command, continues to be a strategic tool in ensuring national security. India initiated the ongoing trials under Operation Sindoor—its military offensive launched on May 7 to retaliate against the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack.
During this operation, India conducted precision strikes on terror infrastructure across neighboring territories. The retaliation brought forth a series of Pakistani attacks on Indian military installations between May 8 and 10. India, however, reacted aggressively, striking and destroying key Pakistani military installations such as air bases, radar systems, and command centers.
Missile Systems at the Forefront
The latest significant test in the area took place in January with the launch of India’s BrahMos supersonic missile, which Defence Minister Rajnath Singh described as vital to India’s air defense against Pakistan. Deployed also during the May 9–10 Pakistani attack was Akashteer air defense control, which intercepted missiles and drones targeted at Indian military and civilian sites.
After intense battles, Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri on May 10 said India and Pakistan had decided to stop all military operations on land, air, and sea. But the resumption of missile testing reflects India’s cautious approach and continued dedication to national defense preparedness.
