Pakistan Air Force Launches Dual Air Warfare Drills, only 6 days Oil Reserves is their biggest worry

In response to the readiness of Indian Forces, the Pakistan Air Force (PAF) has initiated two large-scale air warfare exercises. These exercises are Fiza-e-Badr and Lalkar-e-Momin, effective from the night of April 28, 2025. The operations are expected to cover critical air combat domains. These include force projection, air defense, and air interdiction. All of these will occur under simulated contested airspace conditions.

The exercises are taking place across the Central and Northern Air Commands. This initiative marks one of the most expansive air readiness efforts in recent years by the PAF. These drills are part of a broader operational alert status. This status was quietly activated around April 22–23. It followed increased regional tension and heightened security assessments.

Combat Readiness and Strategic Posturing

According to defense sources, PAF has already logged approximately 400 combat air patrol (CAP) hours since April 11. This signals sustained high alert operations. The ongoing drills will integrate key aspects of command and control. They will also encompass combat support roles. These are designed to test the full-spectrum capabilities of Pakistan’s aerial fleet.

Assets Deployed

A diverse mix of advanced aircraft and support platforms are participating in the dual exercises:

• J-10CE multirole fighters
• F-16 Fighting Falcons
• JF-17 Thunder jets
• Saab 2000 AEW&C (Airborne Early Warning & Control) systems
• DA-20 electronic warfare (EW) aircraft
• HIMADS (High to Medium Air Defense Systems)

The presence of such platforms highlights the PAF’s intention. They aim to simulate a complex, multi-domain battle environment. This requires real-time coordination and rapid response capabilities.

Operational Sustainability Questions

Analysts and regional observers have raised questions about the sustainability of prolonged high-intensity air operations. This is despite the show of strength. They are especially concerned. Reports indicate that Pakistan’s strategic oil reserves may last only up to six days under full combat deployment. Ground-level sources have reaffirmed this logistical vulnerability, which could limit the duration and depth of such exercises.

Tensions remain high across the region, especially along the Line of Control (LoC). India and international observers are closely monitoring the air drills for any signs of escalation or operational spillover.