IAF Enhances Operational Capacity with Second Runway at Leh Airbase in Ladakh

The Indian Air Force is constructing a second runway at Leh Airbase to boost operational capacity, accommodate increased air traffic, and ensure uninterrupted operations in the high-altitude region of Ladakh.

The Indian Air Force (IAF) is constructing a second runway at the Leh airbase in Ladakh, a strategic move to enhance its operational capacity in the northern sector. This development aims to manage the growing military and civilian air traffic and ensure continuous operations, especially during potential hostilities along the border.

Leh airbase, located at a high altitude, has seen a substantial increase in air traffic in recent years. However, its operational window has been limited to morning hours due to the rarefied air and challenging weather conditions. The addition of a second runway is expected to address these limitations, enabling round-the-clock operations.

An IAF officer, who chose to remain anonymous, highlighted the intensified military activities in the region. The Leh airbase frequently hosts operations by fighter aircraft and attack helicopters, including the Rafale, MiG-29, Su-30, and Apache. The officer stressed the need for uninterrupted operations, recalling an incident last year when a C-17 transport aircraft stranded on the runway for two days, which could pose significant risks during volatile border situations.

The Leh airbase is crucial for maintaining India's military presence along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) and the Siachen Glacier. It serves as a vital hub for transporting troops, supplies, weapons, and equipment, particularly during the winter months when road access is cut off due to snow. The base is supported by other airstrips and landing grounds in the area, forming a critical network for military operations.

The construction of a second runway will make Leh the first high-altitude airbase in India with dual runways, a feature already present at several IAF and naval airbases in other parts of the country. This upgrade is part of broader efforts to bolster India's strategic capabilities in the region.

China has also been enhancing its military infrastructure in Tibet, with multiple runways at airbases such as Hotan, Shigatse, and Changdu Bangda. Satellite imagery has revealed new facilities and infrastructure at these bases, underscoring China's ongoing efforts to strengthen its military presence in the region.

The strategic development at Leh airbase reflects India's commitment to maintaining robust defense capabilities along its northern borders, ensuring readiness and operational efficiency in a geopolitically sensitive area.