India Extends No Fly Zone Warning To 4,795 Km For High-Stakes Missile Test In Indian Ocean Next Week

In a significant development, India has extended the Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) to 4,795 km in the Indian Ocean for a missile test slated for 20-21 August.

The move comes amid speculation that the test could involve an advanced variant of the Agni series or a long-range ballistic missile, potentially rivalling global powers like China and the US.

The NOTAM designates a massive no-fly zone stretching from the Odisha coast into the Indian Ocean, aimed at ensuring safety during the high-altitude launch.

India has conducted over 10 missile or system tests in 2025 alone, including successful trials of the Pralay quasi-ballistic, which achieved precision strikes up to 500 km, and Akash Prime missile in July.

NOTAMs are issued to ensure the safety of civilian air and maritime traffic by marking areas to avoid during live-fire trials.

Defence analysts speculate this could involve testing of advanced systems like the Agni-6 intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) or a hypersonic variant, given the extended range.

India’s push for advanced missile capabilities is a central part of its defence modernisation drive and the ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ (self-reliant India) initiative.

Recent years have seen successful tests of long-range systems like the Agni-V — with ranges exceeding 5,000 km — and progress in the Ballistic Missile Defence (BMD) programme.

This latest test also gains significance in the context of evolving strategic dynamics in Asia, particularly with the growing missile capabilities of China and Pakistan.

By enhancing range and performance, India aims to reinforce its deterrence posture, strengthen second-strike capability, and broaden its operational reach across the Indo-Pacific.

If the upcoming trial involves a newly developed or upgraded missile, it could represent another step toward a fully indigenous long-range strike arsenal, reducing reliance on foreign technology and further consolidating India’s position as a major missile power.