India Opens New Military Airbase Near China Border Amidst Easing Tensions

Summary:
India has inaugurated a new military airbase capable of supporting fighter jet operations in Ladakh, a region bordering China. The air force chief conducted the first landing of a C-130J transport aircraft at the Mudh-Nyoma air force station, situated at an altitude of approximately 13,000 feet (4,000 meters). This strategic development marks the third key air station in the region and is located merely 30 km (19 miles) from the Line of Actual Control (LAC) with China.This significant infrastructure upgrade comes despite a recent thaw in relations between the two nuclear-armed nations. Last October saw a pact aimed at reducing military tensions along their disputed border, followed by a visit from Prime Minister Narendra Modi to China earlier this year. However, underlying mistrust continues to persist, as noted by Indian analysts and officials. The Indian Army chief recently highlighted an ongoing, heightened troop presence and infrastructure build-up by both sides along the border.The new Indian military airbase is seen by some, including retired Air Marshal Sanjeev Kapoor, as adding a new challenge for both China and Pakistan. China also maintains an airfield at a similar elevation. The 3,800 km (2,400 miles) long, poorly demarcated border has been a source of contention since the 1950s, leading to a brief conflict in 1962. While the 2024 pact has eased some restrictions, allowing direct flights and two-way visits, the strategic importance of such developments remains high.

Source: https://www.reuters.com/world/china/india-inaugurates-new-military-airbase-close-china-border-source-says-2025-11-13/