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India to Boost Airfield Infrastructure Along China Border
In response to China’s rapid airfield infrastructure development along the Line of Actual Control (LAC), the Indian Ministry of Defence (MoD) and the Indian Air Force (IAF) are advancing plans to take over three airstrips in Uttarakhand and establish a new one in Himachal Pradesh. The move aims to enhance India’s defense capabilities and counter China’s growing influence along the border.
Airstrips in Uttarakhand Under Review
The Indian government is eyeing three airstrips in Uttarakhand—Pithoragarh, Gauchar, and Dharasu—while discussions are at an advanced stage. Pithoragarh already hosts an operational civilian runway, and both Gauchar and Dharasu are strategically located close to key sites like Kedarnath and the Gangotri glacier, respectively. These airstrips have previously accommodated special operations aircraft, including the C-130J.
New Airfield in Himachal Pradesh
The IAF is also considering a new airfield at Rangrik in the Spiti region of Himachal Pradesh. A team from the MoD has already conducted a feasibility study in the area. This airfield could serve both military and civilian purposes, especially since Spiti Valley becomes inaccessible during the winter months due to heavy snowfall.
Enhancing Airfield Infrastructure for Security
The IAF Chief, Air Chief Marshal AP Singh, recently acknowledged that infrastructure on the Chinese side of the LAC is growing rapidly. He noted, “We are matching up; we are beefing up capacities of airfields and also plan to utilise civil infrastructure.” The central sector, which includes Uttarakhand and Himachal Pradesh, is a vital area for ensuring India’s security along the LAC.
The possibility of utilizing operational civilian airstrips in Himachal Pradesh, including those in Shimla, Kangra, and Kullu, is also being considered. These locations are suitable for C-130J operations in case of an emergency, enhancing India’s readiness on both the western and Chinese fronts.
If the Rangrik airfield becomes operational, it would be close to the Chepzi region in Tibet, where Chinese troops are known to patrol. The new airfield could provide critical connectivity to the Spiti region and serve as a crucial asset for defense purposes.
With these developments, India is taking significant steps to secure its borders and counter China’s aggressive infrastructure buildup along the LAC.
