Source : India Today
 |
| The Nyoma Advanced Landing Ground (ALG) in Ladakh is busy with whirring helicopters. (Photo: Manjeet Negi) |
The Nyoma ALG is strategically important as it is the airbase closest to the Line of Actual Control (LAC) between India and China in eastern Ladakh. The airbase enables quick movement of men and material in the area.
The Indian Air Force’s (IAF) Chinook and Apache helicopters are operating at the base non-stop to assist soldiers deployed at the China border, despite the withdrawal of both countries’ armies from friction points in the dispute that has been going on for more than a year.
WORLD’S HIGHEST AIR TRAFFIC CONTROL SYSTEM
Nyoma is home to the world’s highest Air Traffic Control system. It is used to monitor the movements on the other side of the border from an altitude of 14,000 feet.
OPERATIONS AT NYOMA ALG
At the ALG, India Today’s team witnessed Garud commandos of the IAF carrying out special operations while Apache, Chinook and Mi-17 fighter helicopters continuously patrolled the area. Soldiers and goods were being sent on planes to different areas of Ladakh. Mi-17V5 medium-lift helicopters are playing an active role in transporting materials and personnel.
Helicopters have been deployed in close proximity to the area where ground troops are operating in order to provide air support to the Indian Army personnel in the eastern Ladakh region.
WHAT IS SPECIAL ABOUT CHINOOK HELICOPTER?
The Chinook helicopter is a multi-mission helicopter. It is a two-rotor heavy-lift helicopter that has been used in multiple conflict zones across the globe. The first Chinook flew in 1962.
These helicopters are performing the function of transporting soldiers to forward posts on the India-China border and delivering ration and weapons to them.
WHAT IS SPECIAL ABOUT APACHE HELICOPTER?
The 16-feet high and 18-feet wide Apache helicopter requires two pilots at all times. Two engines power it and it can travel at a speed of 280 km per hour.
The Apache helicopter is considered the best for mountain warfare.
No comments: