Why is IAF conducting fighter jets’ landing & take-off drill at Ganga Expressway in UP?
In a recent exercise, the Indian Air Force (IAF) conducted take-off and landing drills on the Ganga Expressway in Uttar Pradesh, with fighter jets like Rafale participating in the drills. The exercise was conducted both during the day and at night, demonstrating the expressway’s potential as an alternative runway during times of war or national emergencies. This is the first airstrip on any expressway in India equipped to handle both day and night landings of jets.
The exercise, which was conducted in a joint effort between the IAF and the Uttar Pradesh government, aimed to assess the feasibility of using the Ganga Expressway as an emergency airstrip. The expressway, which stretches over 165 kilometers, was chosen for its strategic location and its ability to handle heavy air traffic.
The IAF has been looking for alternative runways to ensure continuity of its operations in case of an emergency. The Ganga Expressway, with its wide lanes and high-speed infrastructure, offers a unique opportunity to establish a temporary airstrip. The exercise was designed to test the expressway’s suitability for take-off and landing of fighter jets, including night landings, which are critical for military operations.
The Rafale jets, which are part of the IAF’s frontline fleet, were used for the exercise. The jets, known for their advanced technology and high maneuverability, are capable of taking off and landing at short distances and can operate in a variety of weather conditions.
The exercise involved a team of IAF pilots, technicians, and officials, who worked together to ensure a smooth and safe operation. The team was led by Group Captain Suresh, who is a senior IAF officer with extensive experience in air operations.
The Ganga Expressway, which is one of the longest expressways in India, was chosen for the exercise due to its strategic location and its ability to handle heavy air traffic. The expressway connects the cities of Lucknow and Greater Noida, two major urban centers in Uttar Pradesh. Its location near the Indo-Nepal border also makes it an attractive option for emergency airstrips.
The IAF has been working on establishing alternative runways and emergency airstrips across the country. In recent years, the IAF has established emergency airstrips in several states, including Maharashtra, Gujarat, and Punjab. These airstrips are designed to provide the IAF with a backup option in case of an emergency or a natural disaster.
The Ganga Expressway exercise is a significant development in the IAF’s efforts to establish alternative runways and emergency airstrips. The exercise demonstrates the expressway’s potential as an alternative runway during times of war or national emergencies. The IAF’s decision to use the Ganga Expressway as an emergency airstrip is a testament to the expressway’s infrastructure and its ability to handle heavy air traffic.
The exercise has also generated significant interest among local residents and visitors. Thousands of people gathered along the expressway to witness the exercise, which was a rare sight in the region. The exercise also attracted the attention of local media, which reported extensively on the event.
In conclusion, the IAF’s exercise on the Ganga Expressway is a significant development in the country’s aviation sector. The exercise demonstrates the expressway’s potential as an alternative runway during times of war or national emergencies. The IAF’s decision to use the Ganga Expressway as an emergency airstrip is a testament to the expressway’s infrastructure and its ability to handle heavy air traffic.
News Source:
https://x.com/DDNewslive/status/1918232746507243775
