The Indian Air Force conducted trial landings of C-295, Rafale, Mirage, Sukhoi, and Jaguar aircraft on the 3.5 km airstrip of the Ganga Expressway, showcasing its preparedness for air operations.
UP: Amidst rising tensions along the India-Pakistan border, the Indian Air Force conducted a powerful air operation trial on the Ganga Expressway in Uttar Pradesh on Friday. The landing and takeoff of fighter jets like Rafale, Sukhoi-30 MKI, Mirage-2000, Jaguar, and MiG-29 on the 3.5 km long airstrip built in Shahjahanpur's Jalalabad, drew considerable attention.
Transport aircraft like C-295 and AN-32 also demonstrated their capabilities.
At 12:30 PM, the Air Force's C-295 aircraft landed on the airstrip. This was followed by the AN-32, Super Hercules C-130J, and MI-17 helicopters. Preparations were also made for night landings from 7 PM to 10 PM – a first for an expressway.
First Day-Night Landing on an Expressway
The Ganga Expressway is the first highway in the country equipped for night landings. While previous exercises on the Lucknow-Agra and Purvanchal Expressways were limited to daytime, this exercise included both day and night sessions.
A Strategic Asset Built at a Cost of ₹36,230 Crore
This 594-kilometer expressway stretches from Meerut to Prayagraj, with approximately 80% of the construction completed. The Shahjahanpur airstrip is strategically significant due to its proximity to the Nepal border, which connects to China.
Amit Shah's Message and Military Preparedness
Home Minister Amit Shah has previously stated that the Pulwama attack would be avenged. This Air Force drill is part of India's strategy, demonstrating a b warning and high-alert preparedness. The Army and Navy are also engaged in their respective preparations.
