“Ex Trishul” is the massive tri-service military exercise near India’s western border with Pakistan. The two-week exercise commenced on October 30 and will continue until November 10, 2025. This is one of the largest joint military practices India has had since the aftermath of Operation Sindoor. “Ex Trishul” will integrate the Army, Navy, and Air Force to improve coordination, combat readiness, and interoperability, enabling an effective response to common threats to the region’s security.
Exercise Details and Objectives
The Trishul exercise is underway in the strategically vital border regions of Gujarat and Rajasthan, particularly in the sensitive Sir Creek area near the Rann of Kutch. Over 50,000 troops are taking part, along with numerous weapons, including T-90S and Arjun tanks, missile systems, attack helicopters, Rafale and Sukhoi-30MKI combat planes, and naval frigates and destroyers.
The exercise is conducted in phases led by the different services:
- The Indian Navy is in charge of the first phase, which focuses on protecting the coast and conducting sea-air operations.
- The Indian Army is in charge of the second phase, which focuses on land combat and armored vehicles.
- The Indian Air Force is responsible for the final phase, which focuses on air superiority and long-range strike capabilities.
The Border Security Force (BSF) and the Indian Coast Guard are also involved, which shows a broad approach to national security.
Strategic Importance and Features
The selected region is strategically important due to its proximity to Pakistan and its relevance to sea routes and border enforcement. Such a drill will comprise amphibious operations off the Saurashtra coast, offensive warfare on the desert and creek sectors, and coordinated missions in the air, land, and sea realms. Additionally, the exercise will include space and cyber warfare elements demonstrating the state-of-the-art, multi-domain military capabilities.
Pakistan’s Reaction
Pakistan has responded by issuing naval navigational warnings and holding parallel naval firing exercises in the same area. This shows that the two countries are using strategic signaling and mutual deterrence. Pakistan’s warnings overlap with India’s airspace reserve, underscoring the high military alertness on both sides.
Indian Defence Ministry and Leadership Comments
The Indian Defence Ministry says the exercise showed how well the two countries can work together, how self-reliant they are (Atmanirbharta), and how they can develop new technologies. Rajnath Singh, the Minister of Defense, has told Pakistan not to do anything stupid in this area and has stressed that they are ready to send a strong message if they do.