Nyoma, Third Fighter Base in Ladakh to Be Operational by October to Bolster India-China Air Power Balance

India is on the cusp of a significant boost to its air power in Eastern Ladakh, with the Nyoma Air Base set to achieve emergency landing capability by October 2025, and full-fledged fighter operations expected in early 2026, according to the Border Road Organisation (BRO). Located just 35 km from the Line of Actual Control (LAC), Nyoma is poised to become a strategic pivot in India’s military posture against China.

What Makes Nyoma Air Base a Strategic Asset?

At 13,700 feet above sea level, Nyoma is set to become one of the world’s highest fighter-capable airfields.

Originally an Advanced Landing Ground (ALG) used for helicopters and C-130J special operations aircraft, its transformation into a fully equipped airbase will enable the launch of fighter jets, transport aircraft, and tactical missions from a location within direct striking distance of the LAC.

This enhanced reach means faster response times during border flare-ups and rapid deployment of troops and equipment to forward areas.

Timeline: Emergency Landings by October 2025

According to senior IAF and BRO officials, the 2.7-km-long concrete runway is already complete and meets the IAF’s rigorous operational standards.

• October 2025: Capable of handling emergency fighter and transport aircraft operations.
• By early 2026, the completion of hangars, taxiways, storage depots, and maintenance bays will make Nyoma a fully operational fighter base.

Nyoma vs. China: A High-Altitude Advantage

China may field more combat aircraft, but its Tibetan Plateau airbases are hindered by altitude-induced engine and payload limitations. Nyoma, alongside Leh and Thoise, gives India an altitude-adapted triad of fighter bases, enabling sustained high-tempo operations. The IAF’s swift response during the 2020 Galwan Valley standoff, airlifting over 68,000 troops, 90 tanks, and 330 armoured vehicles- showed the critical role Nyoma already plays in logistics and strategy.

From Mud Strip to Modern Fighter Base

Once a mud-paved ALG, Nyoma could only accommodate helicopters and short take-off aircraft. With its Rs 214-crore upgrade over 1,235 acres, Nyoma now boasts a concrete runway and world-class infrastructure to host Sukhoi-30s, Rafales, and transport aircraft. This transformation is part of a wider BRO initiative, including 90 recently inaugurated border infrastructure projects nationwide.

Also Read: BRO Builds New Lifeline to LAC: Alternate Road to DBO Set for 2026

Environmental & Operational Challenges

The airbase expansion faced initial delays due to its proximity to the Changthang Wildlife Sanctuary, home to the Tibetan Wild Ass and black-necked cranes. The IAF had to obtain clearances and implement environmental safeguards before construction could resume. Operating at 13,700 feet presents extreme weather and low-oxygen challenges, necessitating specialised adaptations for fighter jets and meticulous year-round logistics planning.

Third Fighter Base in Ladakh: A Strategic Signal

Once operational, Nyoma will be India’s third fighter-operational base in Ladakh, complementing Leh and Thoise. This forward-deployed airfield sends a clear strategic message to China, countering its heliport expansions and plateau-runway limitations.

Looking Ahead: A Cornerstone of India’s Air Power

With fighter trials already underway, Nyoma will soon be a linchpin of India’s high-altitude defence strategy. As border tensions simmer, Nyoma’s proximity, readiness, and resilience could tilt the balance of air power and act as a deterrent against any misadventure.

Ravi Shankar