The Indian Air Force (IAF) is set to enhance its capabilities in the strategically vital Ladakh region by building a second runway at the Leh airbase. This initiative aims to manage the rising air traffic and ensure smooth operations despite potential border tensions.
Rising Air Traffic and Operational Challenges
Recently, Leh has experienced a significant increase in both military and civilian air traffic. The high-altitude location and harsh climatic conditions restrict most flight operations to the morning. Previously, civilian flights were fewer, and military activities mainly involved transport aircraft and helicopters. However, escalating tensions along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) have led to a spike in operations involving fighter jets and attack helicopters.
Strategic Importance of the Leh Airbase
The Leh airbase is crucial for maintaining India’s military presence along the LAC and in Siachen. Heavy lifter aircraft like the C-17, IL-76, and Chinook, along with smaller transport planes such as the AN-32, maintain a steady flow of troops, supplies, weapons, and equipment to this high-altitude base. This is especially critical during winter when road access is cut off.
Improving Operational Efficiency
The new runway will help manage the increased air traffic and ensure smoother operations. This upgrade is vital to avoid situations like last year when a stranded C-17 transport aircraft blocked the runway for two days, potentially jeopardizing crucial missions during border tensions. Various fighter jets, including Rafales, MiG-29s, Su-30s, and Apaches, are regularly rotated through Leh from other bases.