The IAF proved its capabilities to counter China's illegal aerial surveillance by successfully striking down Chinese spy balloon-type targets. During a trial, a Rafale fighter jet shot down a Chinese spy balloon-type target at an altitude of 55,000 plus feet along the eastern front. The IAF had been holding discussions on the issue of tackling the challenge posed by such balloons which fly at very altitude. The IAF also held discussions with the American Air Force last year to counter the issue of illegal aerial surveillance. Sighting of such spy balloons was captured over America's South Carolina the Andaman and Nicobar Islands territory in India. It was also believed that China has been using these Spy Balloons for spying over large areas. Meanwhile, the IAF has been preparing its standard operating procedures to act against such threats in future.