PM Modi inaugurates Highway Emergency Landing Facility in Assam: a new chapter in development of India's military capabilities in Northeast
India has elevated its defense preparedness near the China border to a new level. Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the Northeast's first highway-based emergency landing facility (ELF) in Dibrugarh. The touchdown of 16 fighter jets during the event demonstrated that the Indian Air Force is prepared for any situation.
Today marked a golden chapter in the development of India's military capabilities and infrastructure in Northeast. Prime Minister Narendra Modi officially inaugurated the Northeast's first Emergency Landing Facility (ELF) at the Moran bypass in Assam's Dibrugarh district. This 4.2-kilometer-long airstrip, built on the national highway, will serve as an alternate runway for Indian Air Force (IAF) fighter jets and cargo planes in times of war or emergency.
The ELF has been specially designed by the Air Force to assist military and civilian aircraft in landing and takeoff during emergencies in Northeast India. This ELF will expedite rescue and relief operations in the Northeast during natural disasters and war-like situations.
China border is about 300 KM from ELF
The importance of this airstrip is evident from its location. The China border is approximately 300 kilometers from the Moran Bypass, and the Myanmar border is only 200 kilometers away. Having such a facility close to the Line of Actual Control (LAC) will prove to be a 'game changer' for the Indian Army. According to officials, this highway strip will serve as an active hub to respond to the enemy in the event of a technical problem or the unavailability of a main airbase like Chabua.
In the presence of the Prime Minister, 16 fighter jets, including Rafale and Sukhoi, performed an aerial display at the ELF. During this demonstration, the aircraft demonstrated landing and takeoff from the highway itself. The demo lasted approximately 30-40 minutes.
Upon Narendra Modi's arrival in Dibrugarh, he was welcomed on stage by Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma and Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal. A large crowd gathered at the venue, creating an enthusiastic atmosphere. PM Modi himself landed on this highway strip in a special Air Force aircraft, marking the completion of its strategic testing. This facility is based on the same expressway model as the Purvanchal Expressway in Uttar Pradesh, which was completed in 2021.
40-minute aerial display of bravery
The Indian Air Force displayed its immense prowess during the inauguration ceremony. The approximately 40-minute air show featured aircraft such as the Rafale, Sukhoi-30 MKI, Dornier, and AN-32. Within a record 30 minutes, 16 fighter jets successfully completed touchdown and flypass maneuvers over the highway. It was a proud moment for local residents to witness the roar and landing of the fighter jets on the highway.