Aftermath of Galwan Valley clashes led to massive airlift operation carried out by Indian Airforce (IAF) in Eastern Ladakh region
IAF’s C-130 J Super Hercules landing at Ladakh region
In a proactive effort to enhance operational preparedness along the Line of Actual Control (LAC), the Indian Air Force (IAF) has executed a substantial airlift operation in eastern Ladakh. This initiative has facilitated the transportation of approximately 70,000 Army troops, along with heavy platforms such as tanks, artillery guns, and BMPs weighing over 9,000 tonnes. This comprehensive airlift operation was initiated in response to the prolonged military standoff between India and China in the region.
The airlift operation was launched following the Galwan Valley clashes, resulting in the rapid induction of multiple divisions of Army troops. The estimated number of troops surpassed 68,000, alongside the strategic airlift of over 300 BMPs, around 100 tanks, and artillery guns, constituting a significant logistical effort.
The ongoing military standoff, now in its fourth year, has prompted India to maintain a state of continuous military readiness in the region. Despite diplomatic negotiations and disengagement efforts, an estimated 50,000-60,000 troops from both nations continue to be stationed along the India-China border. The creation of buffer zones and the disengagement at specific friction points have not completely resolved the situation, as legacy issues such as the Depsang Plains and Demchok persist.
As part of ongoing discussions, the 19th round of India-China military talks is scheduled to address these persisting challenges. The need for maintaining operational readiness and addressing border issues remains a priority.
The IAF’s airlift operation has been a key component of India’s response to the situation. The operation has involved the deployment of various aircraft, including the C-17 Globemaster III and the C-130 J Super Hercules, which have conducted numerous sorties to transport troops and equipment to forward bases.
In addition to troop transportation, the IAF’s efforts have included the deployment of essential assets such as radars and surface-to-air guided weapon systems. These critical assets have been swiftly deployed to forward locations, contributing to the bolstering of operational capabilities in the region.
Furthermore, helicopters, including Apache attack helicopters and Chinook heavy-lift helicopters, have played a crucial role in the deployment of radars, maintenance of military posts, and infrastructure development. These helicopters have been instrumental in reconnaissance, supporting infrastructure projects, and facilitating casualty evacuations.
The infrastructure push in eastern Ladakh encompasses the construction of helipads and the upgrade of existing advanced landing grounds to support fighter operations. The reinforcement of the air defense network through the deployment of radars at forward locations has also significantly enhanced real-time monitoring of aerial activities along the LAC.
As the standoff persists, the IAF has stationed fighter jets such as Rafale, Su 30 MKIs, Mirage 2000s, and MiG-29s in eastern Ladakh. These fighter jets have conducted regular combat air patrols and projected an offensive posture to ensure preparedness.
