India’s Highest Airfield at Mudh-Nyoma Nears Completion Under Indian Army’s Project Himank

Ladakh, India — The Indian Army’s Project Himank has reached a significant milestone with the near-completion of India’s highest airfield at Mudh-Nyoma in Ladakh, close to the Line of Actual Control (LAC) with China. Brigadier Vishal Srivastava, Chief Engineer of Project Himank, announced that the airfield is expected to be fully operational by the end of this year, underscoring India’s commitment to bolstering its strategic infrastructure in the region.

At an altitude of 13,700 feet, the Mudh-Nyoma airfield has been developed to handle heavy military aircraft, including fighter jets, transport planes, and rotary-wing helicopters, making it one of the most formidable aviation hubs in high-altitude warfare. Brigadier Srivastava noted, "As far as the runway is concerned, it is almost complete. Final touches are being applied, and a joint inspection with the Indian Air Force is scheduled soon. We are optimistic about conducting trial landings by year-end.”  

Boosting Strategic and Socio-Economic Potential  

The construction of this high-altitude airfield is a critical development for India’s military readiness and socio-economic landscape in the remote region. The advanced facility, designed to support India’s heaviest military aircraft, will provide enhanced logistical and rapid response capabilities along the LAC, bolstering national security in an area known for its rugged terrain and strategic sensitivity.

Brigadier Srivastava emphasized the local impact, explaining, “This runway will significantly aid not only in terms of military operations but also in boosting the socio-economic conditions of nearby regions, including Hanley, Loma, and Nyoma.” He highlighted that the airfield’s construction aligns with Project Himank’s broader goal of supporting communities through improved infrastructure.  

Record-Breaking Construction  

The airfield’s completion underlines the use of state-of-the-art technology and innovative construction practices adapted to the harsh high-altitude conditions of Ladakh. Temperatures in the region drop to as low as -35 degrees Celsius in winter, limiting the working season to a brief period between May and November. Despite this constraint, the airfield was completed at a record pace, with modern machinery, specialized cold-setting compounds, and quality-control additives ensuring that the construction adhered to stringent standards.

“The foundation stone for this runway was laid by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on August 23, and within a remarkably short timeframe, we are ready for trial operations,” Brigadier Srivastava noted. “This is the highest runway in India, built with the latest construction technologies to withstand the extreme weather, with no compromise on quality or speed.”  

Enhancing Military Capabilities Against China  

The new airfield’s operational readiness will further strengthen India’s defence posture in Ladakh, an area marked by strategic importance and a history of tensions with China. Recently, India and China reached a disengagement agreement in Eastern Ladakh’s Depsang and Demchok sectors following extensive discussions across military and diplomatic channels. The completion of the Mudh-Nyoma airfield marks India’s proactive approach to maintaining readiness and strengthening infrastructure along its contested borders.  

This airfield will join the network of strategically placed airfields, roads, and installations in the northern frontier, offering both defensive and operational advantages. The Mudh-Nyoma facility is anticipated to support swift troop and equipment movement, aiding in rapid response and reconnaissance capabilities.