China, Pakistan rattled as India gets new airbase at 13,700 feet, designed for -40°C, will provide quick…, strategic capabilities…
New Delhi: Boosting India’s national security and connectivity along the Line of Actual Control (LAC), the country’s highest airfield located at Nyoma in eastern Ladakh will be fully ready for operation by October. According to sources, Nyoma is the closest Advanced Landing Ground (ALG) to the LAC, located at an altitude of about 13,700 feet.
What is the length of the Nyoma runway?
The Nyoma Advanced Landing Ground (ALG) area will be helpful in enhancing the quick movement and strategic capabilities of the defense forces. Nyoma ALG has a newly constructed three-kilometer-long runway, designed to help in emergency operations. The project was given the green signal in 2021 with a budget allocation of about Rs 214 crore.
The height of the airstrip and its presence close to the Line of Actual Control (LAC) make the airstrip a strategic asset, allowing India to deploy resources faster than ever on its northern border. As the closest ALG to the LAC, Nyoma’s position will be very important in the response scenario. This will give the Indian Air Force direct access to remote and mountainous border areas, where traditional ground transportation is often challenging.
What is the strategic importance of Nyoma?
The construction of Nyoma has been completed at a time when special attention is being paid to infrastructure on the India-China border. Since the standoff with China began on the Line of Actual Control four years ago, India has rapidly advanced its infrastructure projects in Ladakh and surrounding areas.
Nyoma is a major breakthrough in this network, which connects with newly built roads, tunnels and bridges to enhance India’s counter capabilities and logistics support in inaccessible areas.
The importance of this airfield has increased even more after the recent military disengagement agreement between India and China in two disputed areas – Demchok and Depsang. Patrolling has resumed due to these disengagements, yet Nyoma’s proximity to these areas shows its importance as a quick deployment base.
The rapid infrastructure being built by India is a strong sign of its commitment to protect territorial integrity.
Important for border security and surveillance
India has carried forward these infrastructure projects under challenging circumstances, which reflects a decisive shift in its approach towards border security. The focus of the Government of India on strengthening connectivity, especially in areas like Ladakh, is important to meet both military and civilian needs.
The development of high altitude ALGs like Nyoma not only ensures better operations, but also contributes to local connectivity, as well as supports civil aviation, which can also provide better facilities to the people.
This strategic airfield at Nyoma is a milestone in India’s goal of strengthening the Himalayan border infrastructure, equipping it to deal with potential threats and ensuring a secure border.
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