Dharamshala, 11th August: India is exploring expanding its capabilities to operate fixed-wing aircraft from facilities near the Chinese border at a time when China is rapidly building its capability to operate fighters close to eastern Ladakh. India is examining several alternatives for establishing airfields in eastern Ladakh, including Daulat Beg Oldi (DBO), Fukche, and Nyoma, all of which are only a few minutes away from China’s Line of Actual Control (LAC).

IAF Group Captain Ajay Rathi spoke on the importance of having an advanced landing ground like Nyoma. “Because of its proximity to the Line of Actual Control, Nyoma ALG is strategically important. It connects the Leh airstrip to the LAC, allowing for rapid transportation of men and materials in eastern Ladakh while overcoming terrain friction “Rathi said.

The Air Force has also deployed Igla man-portable air defense missiles to counter any aerial invasion by hostile aircraft. The Indian Air Force has been frequently deploying fighter aircraft such as the Rafale and MiG-29 to perform out operations in eastern Ladakh, where troops have been disengaged at two areas, Pangong Tso and Gogra heights, but neither side has de-escalated.

Since last year, the Chinese have been amassing troops and carrying out aggression under the guise of an exercise, after which the Indian security forces replied in kind and put a stop to the Chinese aggression. The Indian Air Force is also maintaining its assets in Leh and upgrading its capabilities in the region.

Share this on