India Extends NOTAM for Missile Test in Bay of Bengal Amid Chinese Vessel Activity
India has extended its Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) for a missile test in the Bay of Bengal until October 18, 2025, creating a massive 3,550 km danger zone. This development, reported on October 17, coincides with the resumption of operations by China’s spy vessel Yuan Wang 5 in the Indian Ocean, heightening strategic tensions.
The test likely involves the K-4 submarine-launched ballistic missile (SLBM) from INS Arihant or an Agni-series variant, with a range covering potential adversarial targets. The extended zone spans from the Odisha coast to the southern Indian Ocean, restricting air and sea traffic for safety.
Defense sources indicate this is part of routine trials but timed to assert presence amid Chinese naval tracking ships monitoring activities. The Yuan Wang 5, equipped with advanced sensors, has been tracking Indian tests previously, prompting countermeasures like electronic jamming.
This event highlights India’s growing missile prowess under the Strategic Forces Command, bolstering nuclear deterrence. Analysts warn of escalating IOR rivalries, urging diplomatic channels to avoid miscalculations.
