India's military infrastructure in eastern Ladakh is poised for a significant boost with the Nyoma airfield set to be operational by October. This strategic airbase, located at an altitude of 13,700 feet, is close to the Line of Actual Control (LAC) and is expected to significantly enhance India's air power projection in the region.
Strategic Importance and Capabilities
The Nyoma airfield is strategically located approximately 30-50 km from the LAC, offering a swift response time and the ability to conduct interdiction strikes. Its location provides a vital advantage compared to the airbases at Leh and Thoise, which are situated further from the LAC. The airfield's flatter valley and more stable weather conditions compared to Leh enhance operational reliability for both fighter and transport aircraft.
Once fully operational, Nyoma will be India's third fighter-operational base in Ladakh, complementing Leh and Thoise. The Border Roads Organisation (BRO) has upgraded the existing mud-paved runway into a paved runway suitable for aircraft launch and recovery, as well as minor maintenance work. The 2.7-km long concrete runway is complete and meets the Indian Air Force's (IAF) operational standards. The airfield will support the operation of fighter jets like the Rafale, Sukhoi-30 MKI, and Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas. It will also facilitate regular flights of transporters such as C-130J and AN-32, carrying troops and supplies.
The development project, approved in 2021 with a budget of approximately Rs 214 crore, includes the construction of hangars, taxiways, storage depots, radar stations, air traffic control building and maintenance bays.
Enhancing Connectivity and Infrastructure
The BRO is also working to connect forward Army posts in the northern sector, which are currently only accessible on foot, with roads. This initiative aims to ensure that there will be no portion of the border where troops cannot be deployed within five years. Furthermore, an alternate road link to Daulat Beg Oldie (DBO), the world's highest military airstrip, is expected to be completed by 2026. This new route, the Sasoma-Sasser La-Sasser Brangsa-Gapshan-DBO link, will reduce transit time from the Siachen base camp to DBO from nearly two days to a few hours.
Countering Chinese Infrastructure
The development of the Nyoma airbase and other infrastructure projects is a response to China's upgraded airfields and increased military presence along the LAC. Over the last three years, China has been upgrading its airfields in the area and building new ones, including dual-use airfields, roads, and accommodation for troops. The enhanced infrastructure at Nyoma will enable the IAF to respond more effectively to any potential crises in the region.
Boosting National Security and Regional Development
The operationalization of the Nyoma airfield will provide a significant boost to national security and improve connectivity in remote areas. The airfield will enable faster deployment of resources to India's northern borders, particularly in the mountainous regions where ground transport is challenging. Moreover, high-altitude ALGs like Nyoma support civilian flights, improving transport and services for remote communities.
