Shahjahanpur Gets India’s First Night-Landing Airstrip for Training of Fighter Planes
A Strategic Leap in Indian Military Infrastructure
Shahjahanpur, a district in Uttar Pradesh, has etched its name in India’s defense history by inaugurating the country’s first night-landing airstrip for fighter jet training on a civilian expressway. Built on the Ganga Expressway near Jalalabad, this 3.5-kilometer-long airstrip is not only a marvel of modern infrastructure but also a game-changer for the Indian Air Force’s (IAF) operational training capabilities.
India’s First Expressway Airstrip with Night-Landing Capabilities
While India has previously experimented with aircraft landings on expressways, Shahjahanpur’s airstrip is the first to be officially equipped and tested for night landings of fighter jets. On May 1st, 2025, the Indian Air Force successfully conducted a series of day and night operations involving aircraft such as the Rafale, Sukhoi Su-30MKI, Jaguar, MiG-29, and Mirage 2000.
This marks a significant advancement in military logistics, ensuring that alternative runways are available in emergencies—even in the dark of night.
Why Shahjahanpur Was Chosen
Strategically located on the 594-kilometer-long Ganga Expressway, Shahjahanpur offers a central position between western and eastern Uttar Pradesh. The Jalalabad region was selected due to its open landscape and minimal civilian disruption. Additionally, 44 villages in the district are touched by the expressway, making it a logistically sound choice for establishing such a dual-purpose facility.
High-Tech Surveillance and Security
To ensure smooth military operations and safety during night drills, the airstrip is fortified with over 250 high-definition CCTV cameras, perimeter security measures, and advanced lighting systems suited for night flying. The IAF had taken over the site well in advance to carry out technical inspections, practice runs, and communication system calibrations.
What This Means for the Indian Air Force
The Shahjahanpur night-landing airstrip provides the IAF with a strategic advantage in rapid deployment and training flexibility. In the event of war, natural disasters, or national emergencies, expressways like Ganga Expressway can now be used as alternate airbases. This helps disperse the Air Force’s operational footprint, making it harder for adversaries to target key airbases.
Additionally, the facility allows pilots to practice emergency landings, night operations, and tactical touch-and-go exercises in a simulated real-world environment.
Aircraft That Participated in the First Combat Drill
During the inaugural exercise, the following aircraft and helicopters showcased their operational prowess:
- Rafale – Equipped with Meteor missiles and cutting-edge avionics.
- Sukhoi Su-30MKI – Capable of carrying BrahMos missiles.
- Jaguar – Specialized in precision ground attacks.
- MiG-29 – Known for high speed and radar-evading capabilities.
- Mirage 2000 – Ideal for deep-strike and nuclear-capable missions.
- C-130J Super Hercules – Used for troop deployment and logistics.
- AN-32 – Versatile transport aircraft for high-altitude zones.
- MI-17 V5 Helicopter – Designed for rescue and disaster response.
Citizens Witness Historic Air Show
Thousands of onlookers, including students and residents, gathered near the expressway to witness the rare and historic event. Fighter jets roaring across the skies, executing low passes and landings, created a visual spectacle that stirred national pride. The event was particularly memorable as it marked the first night landing of a fighter jet on an Indian expressway.
Weather Challenges Didn’t Stop the Drill
Initially, there were concerns about weather interference. Shahjahanpur experienced dust storms and high winds, while Jalalabad remained relatively calm. Despite the uncertainty, the IAF proceeded with a perfectly timed sequence of aircraft landings and take-offs, culminating in a seamless night-time operation.
Timeline of the Exercise
| Time | Event |
|---|---|
| 12:41 PM | AN-32 appears in the sky |
| 12:46 PM | AN-32 lands on airstrip |
| 1:08 PM | AN-32 takes off |
| 1:29 PM | C-130J Hercules lands |
| 1:41 PM | Jaguar performs touch-and-go |
| 2:15 PM | Troops descend from MI-17 helicopter |
| 9:00 PM onward | Night landings of fighter jets begin |
Future Implications
The successful implementation of a night-landing airstrip on an expressway opens up new dimensions in India’s defense strategy. More such airstrips could be developed on national highways and expressways across India to strengthen national security and quick response capabilities.
The Ministry of Defence is reportedly reviewing other expressway locations for similar developments, which could transform India’s road infrastructure into strategic military assets during conflict or emergency.
Conclusion
The establishment of India’s first night-landing airstrip for fighter training in Shahjahanpur is not just a regional milestone—it’s a national triumph. It symbolizes India’s shift towards integrated infrastructure development where roads, defense, and technology converge to safeguard sovereignty and ensure preparedness in an unpredictable world.
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