Chief of the Air Staff, Air Chief Marshal AP Singh, inaugurated the newly upgraded Mudh-Nyoma airbase in Ladakh on Wednesday by landing a C-130J special operations aircraft, marking a significant milestone in India’s border infrastructure development.
The Nyoma airbase, located at an altitude of 13,700 feet and just 23 km from the Line of Actual Control (LAC) with China, was developed at a cost of Rs 218 crore. The project was executed under the supervision of a team of women officers from the Border Roads Organisation (BRO). Defence Minister Rajnath Singh had laid the foundation stone in September 2023, calling it a “game-changer” for India’s armed forces.
The new base features a 2.7-km-long runway capable of handling fighter jets, transport aircraft, and helicopters. The facility also includes hangars, an air traffic control building, and hard standings for aircraft. Work on the base gained momentum following the 2020 military standoff with China and is part of India’s broader push to enhance infrastructure along its northern borders.
Western Air Command chief Air Marshal Jeetendra Mishra accompanied the Air Chief during the landing. Officials said the airbase will play a key role in strengthening India’s rapid deployment capability in high-altitude regions.
BRO chief Lieutenant General Raghu Srinivasan earlier described the Nyoma project as one of the most strategically significant developments in Ladakh. The reactivation of the Nyoma airstrip began in 2009, decades after it was abandoned post the 1962 India-China war.
India has accelerated its border infrastructure projects in recent years, including roads, tunnels, airfields, and bridges to improve connectivity and logistical support for both military and civilian use.
Strategic experts say the Nyoma base’s proximity to the LAC gives India a tactical edge. Retired Air Marshal Anil Chopra noted that it will enable faster deployment of troops, equipment, and air operations if required.
The defence ministry recently stated that while the situation along the LAC remains stable, it continues to be sensitive. India has also been engaging in talks with China to achieve a long-term resolution to boundary issues.
