The Indian Air Force (IAF) conducted a historic drill on the Ganga Expressway in Shahjahanpur, UP, where fighter jets like Rafale, Sukhoi-30, MiG-29, and Jaguar successfully performed night landings and take-offs on Friday night. The exercise involved “Touch and Go” maneuvers, where aircraft briefly touched the runway before taking off again.
Why is This Significant?
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Ganga Expressway is now India’s first expressway where fighter jets can land both day and night.
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In emergency situations, this runway can serve as an alternative airstrip.
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India joins an elite group of nations capable of operating fighter jets on highways.
Spectacular Air Show Highlights:
Earlier on Friday, C-130J Super Hercules, Mirage-2000, and MI-17 helicopters flew from Trishul Airbase (Bareilly). Army personnel practiced rappelling (rope descent) in a simulated combat scenario. Despite bad weather, thousands of spectators witnessed the thrilling display.
Strategic Importance:
This drill highlights the IAF’s combat readiness amid India-Pakistan tensions. If traditional airbases are destroyed in war or disasters, expressway runways will serve as backup landing sites.
Fact Check:
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✅ First-ever night landing drill on an Indian expressway.
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✅ Rafale, Sukhoi-30, MiG-29, Jaguar among 15+ aircraft participated.
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✅ 3.5 KM runway prepared for emergency landings.