Nyoma ALG Upgradation and Fighter Jet Operations

  • August 13, 2023
  • Posted by: OptimizeIAS Team
  • Category: DPN Topics
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Nyoma ALG Upgradation and Fighter Jet Operations

Subject : Science and Technology

Section: Defence

Context:

In line with ongoing LAC infrastructure development, expansion work began on Nyoma ALG in eastern Ladakh.

Infrastructure Development and Runway Expansion:

  • Nyoma Advanced Landing Ground (ALG) expansion is underway as part of LAC development.
  • Runway extended beyond 9,000 feet for fighter jet accommodation.
  • Construction ongoing, expected to finish in 2-3 years.

High-Altitude Capability Enhancement:

  • Fighter jet engines adapted for high-altitude operation, by IAF.
  • Jets enabled to start at Nyoma’s 13,700 feet elevation.

Strategic Significance and Operational Role:

  • Nyoma’s proximity to LAC is pivotal for defense purposes.
  • Used during the 2020 stand-off for deploying helicopters and intelligence gathering.
  • Upgraded ALG facilitates rapid deployment near LAC.

Countering China’s Strategy:

  • China’s LAC infrastructure advancements include missile and radar systems.
  • Nyoma upgrade counters China’s “Anti Access Area Denial (A2AD)” strategy.
    • China’s A2AD refers to restricting the adversary’s access to key locations identified as strategic in nature.
  • Focus on enhancing defensive capabilities against China’s developments.

Choice of Nyoma and Environmental Factors:

  • Nyoma is chosen for its expandable runway and favourable weather conditions.
  • Environmental clearances obtained considering Changthang Wildlife Sanctuary.
  • Strategic planning to ensure efficient utilization of Nyoma ALG.

Advanced Landing Ground (ALG)

Initially, Advanced Landing Grounds (ALGs) were temporary airfields established during World War II for rapid air support to ground troops, strategically located near battlefronts.

  • Location: ALGs are strategically placed near battlefronts, reducing aircraft response time and enabling rapid support.
  • Basic Setup: ALGs have basic facilities like runways and parking, using simple construction methods like gravel runways and steel matting.
  • Examples: In Normandy (Europe), ALG A-21 supported D-Day landings. In the Pacific, ALG Noemfoor aided operations against Japan.
  • Versatility: ALGs accommodate various aircraft types, supporting roles from air combat to supply and evacuation.
  • Challenges: Limited facilities, weather sensitivity, and vulnerability to attacks posed challenges.
  • Modern Equivalent: Today’s Forward Operating Bases (FOBs) or Forward Operating Positions (FOPs) serve similar purposes with updated tactics.
  • In India at LAC
  1. Nyoma ALG in Ladakh.
  2. Daulat Beg-Oldie (DBO) ALG in Ladakh.
  3. Fukche ALG in Ladakh.
  4. ALGs in Leh and
  5. Thoise (Leh).

Changthang Wildlife Sanctuary

  • Location: Situated on Changthang Plateau in Ladakh, India.
  • Tso Moriri Lake: Hosts one of the world’s highest lakes, Tso Moriri, at an elevation of 4595 meters.
  • Also encompasses Tso Kar and Pangong Tso lakes.
  • Korzok Monastery: Found on the north-western shore of Tso Moriri, in the Korzok village.

Prominent Fauna: Includes snow leopard, kiang (Tibetan Wild Ass – LC), and argali (Great Tibetan Sheep – NT).

Nyoma ALG Upgradation and Fighter Jet Operations Science and tech