**India Shuts Airspace Near Andaman and Nicobar Islands for Missile Test**
India has announced the temporary closure of airspace around the Andaman and Nicobar Islands until Saturday due to a scheduled missile test in the region. Geo-analyst Damien Symon reported that a Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) has been issued for May 23-24, 2025, indicating the airspace restrictions are part of standard procedures that often precede strategic weapons testing.
While the specifics of the missile test have not been disclosed, it is expected that airspace over the Bay of Bengal and the Andaman Sea will remain closed until May 24. This missile test follows a period of increased tensions between India and Pakistan, particularly after the launch of Operation Sindoor on May 7. This operation involved precision strikes by India targeting terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, in retaliation for a terror attack in Pahalgam on April 22.
In response to India’s actions, Pakistan conducted aerial attacks on Indian military bases and civilian areas over the following days, utilizing drones and missiles. Notably, in April 2024, the Indian Air Force successfully test-fired a new variant of an air-launched medium-range ballistic missile, capable of hitting targets over 250 km away, from the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. This missile, known as ROCKS or Crystal Maze 2, was developed in Israel and launched from a Su-30 MKI fighter jet during the test.
As the situation develops, the implications of these military activities on regional security and international relations remain significant.
**FAQ**
**What is the purpose of the airspace closure near the Andaman and Nicobar Islands?**
The airspace closure is due to a scheduled missile test, which is a routine procedure associated with strategic weapons testing.
