India has issued a temporary NOTAM over a large area of the Bay of Bengal from December 6 to 8, signalling a likely strategic missile test off the Odisha coast. The alert blocks air and sea traffic across nearly 1,480 km to ensure safety during defence-related activity. Such notices are routinely used worldwide to warn pilots, airlines and ships about temporary restrictions, especially during major military trials, helping create a secure corridor while India continues its broader defence preparations.
Bay of Bengal Zone Marked for Safety as Odisha Continues to Lead Tests
Even though the advisory does not directly mention where the launch may take place, the marked zone in the Bay of Bengal strongly matches India’s regular test areas linked to the Integrated Test Range (ITR) at Chandipur in Odisha’s Balasore district.
This region has seen multiple trials over the years and continues to be a central hub for India’s missile and defence testing. The ITR has been especially busy this year. Many key systems have been tested, including short-range ballistic missiles and air defence platforms.
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There were also back-to-back trials of Prithvi-II and Agni-I carried out under the Strategic Forces Command. In another major milestone, India tested an upgraded version of Agni Prime in September. This test was unique because it was launched from a special rail-based platform, highlighting the country’s efforts to improve mobility and flexibility in its defence systems.
Odisha’s long coastline, open waters and secure testing infrastructure make it an ideal location for these activities. The area’s geography allows India to create long safety corridors across the sea, giving enough space for high-speed flight tests while keeping civilian routes protected.
Multiple Defence Exercises Add to a Busy Military Calendar
India’s defence forces have issued several large-scale alerts this month as they carry out exercises across different regions, each bringing its own airspace restrictions.
Earlier this week, the Indian Air Force released another NOTAM for an exercise in Rajasthan. The event, scheduled from December 3 to 6 near the Pakistan frontier, helps pilots practice complex missions and ensures crews and equipment stay fully prepared.
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In the Northeast, authorities issued a separate alert for a major Air Force drill involving areas near the borders with China, Myanmar, Bhutan and Bangladesh. These exercises include aircraft movements, mock combat scenarios and tests of support networks that are crucial during real-world situations.
Together, the Rajasthan and Northeast NOTAMs, combined with the new Bay of Bengal alert, show that India’s defence forces are carrying out a very active operational schedule as the year comes to an end. These drills help improve coordination, readiness and response abilities across different regions.
What This NOTAM Suggests and Why It Matters for Civilian Protection
Whenever a NOTAM of this scale appears over the Bay of Bengal, it often points to a possible missile or defence-related trial. Although the government has not confirmed any specific test, the size and timing of this alert mirror earlier events in which officials checked long-range systems for accuracy, performance and safety.
These tests follow strict procedures. Before any launch, authorities warn all civilian aircraft and ships to avoid the region. This prevents accidents and helps authorities maintain tight control over the test path. The NOTAM acts like a large “keep-out zone,” making sure that any object launched during the trial moves through a completely clear corridor.
People living in nearby districts, including parts of coastal Odisha, may notice increased movement of defence personnel or support ships, but these activities are routine. Local officials typically work with national agencies to ensure safety arrangements remain smooth throughout the advisory period.
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India has issued similar alerts many times in recent years, and each time they have passed without disruption to daily life. For pilots and airlines, these notices function as standard navigational updates. Aircraft simply use alternate flight paths until the advisory period ends.
With the NOTAM in effect from December 6 to December 8, all eyes will be on the Bay of Bengal as India prepares for what may be another key milestone in its ongoing defence testing calendar.