Indian Air Force lands heavy transport plane at high-altitude Ladakh airbase

An Indian Air Force heavy-lift transport plane has landed at the Nyoma airbase in eastern Ladakh at an altitude of over 13,600 feet, setting a record for the highest touchdown by this aircraft type anywhere in the world.

Location and Details

The Russian-origin IL-76MD aircraft touched down at the airbase located about 25 kilometres from the Line of Actual Control with China. The Indian Air Force called the landing a milestone that strengthens India's strategic airlift capability, praising the crew for their exceptional skill, precision, and professionalism. The strategic airbase sits at a height of 13,629 feet and was operationalised in November last year to handle fighter jets, helicopters, and transport planes.

Regional Infrastructure

Nyoma is the fourth air force base in Ladakh, joining existing facilities in Leh, Kargil, and Thoise, where the Kargil airstrip sits at about 10,500 feet. The Defence Ministry is actively improving infrastructure at airfields and Advanced Landing Grounds along the Line of Actual Control to meet operational needs, including work at the Daulat Beg Oldi Advanced Landing Ground.

Context

Advanced Landing Grounds in high-altitude regions like Ladakh are vital for moving troops and supplies quickly in difficult mountain terrain. Upgrading these remote airbases helps security forces maintain a strong presence along disputed border areas where road travel can be slow and weather conditions are harsh.