In a significant move to strengthen its defense capabilities, India has approved a major plan to build military airfields in the Lakshadweep islands. This decision aims to monitor growing Chinese activities in the region and expand India’s reach.
The Central government approved the proposals during a high-level meeting on Thursday, as reported by defense sources to ANI. The plan, led by the Department of Military Affairs and supported by the three services, involves constructing a new airbase on Minicoy Island and extending the existing airfield on Agatti Island, both located in the Arabian Sea on India’s western side.
These airfields will serve dual purposes, being used by both the military and commercial airlines. They will be capable of deploying and operating all types of fighter and transport aircraft, along with long-range drones. This development will provide the Indian forces with a strategic edge in the region.
This decision comes amid increasing Chinese naval activity in the Indian Ocean Region and its close collaboration with the Pakistan Navy. The new airfields will enhance India’s ability to monitor and respond to these developments.
The Indian Air Force will lead this project, which will see the establishment of a military conclave used by all three defense forces and the Indian Coast Guard. The Indian Coast Guard initially suggested developing an airstrip on Minicoy Island. Under the current proposal, the Indian Air Force will manage operations from Minicoy.
The new airport on Minicoy will extend the defense forces’ surveillance capabilities in the Arabian Sea. Additionally, it is expected to boost tourism in the region, aligning with government plans to promote tourism in Lakshadweep.
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Minicoy Island is located just around 50 miles from the Maldives, making it a strategically important location for India’s defense and surveillance efforts.
The construction of these airfields in Lakshadweep is a strategic move to enhance India’s defense capabilities, monitor regional activities, and promote tourism, thereby benefiting both national security and economic development.
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