After 2020 Galwan clashes, IAF airlifted 68,000 soldiers to eastern Ladakh: Report
Following the deadly clashes in the Galwan Valley, the Indian Air Force airlifted over 68,000 Army soldiers, 90 tanks, and other weapon systems to eastern Ladakh for rapid deployment along the Line of Actual Control (LAC), according to top sources in the defence and security establishment.
The IAF deployed Su-30 MKI and Jaguar jets in the region for round-the-clock surveillance and intelligence gathering on the enemy buildup, in addition to deploying several squadrons of combat aircraft in "offensive posturing" in the aftermath of the clashes on June 15, 2020, which they described as the most serious military conflict between the two sides in decades.
The troops and weapons were carried by the IAF's transport fleet in a "very short period of time" for quick deployment in various inhospitable areas along the LAC as part of a special operation, according to sources, highlighting how the force's strategic airlift capability has grown over the years.
In light of the rising tensions, the IAF said it had deployed a large number of remotely piloted aircraft (RPAs) in the region to keep a close eye on Chinese actions.
According to the Indian Army, the IAF flew numerous divisions totalling over 68,000 troops, more than 90 tanks, approximately 330 BMP infantry combat vehicles, radar systems, artillery guns, and a variety of other equipment.
The entire load carried by the IAF's transport fleet, which included C-130J Super Hercules and C-17 Globemaster planes, was 9,000 tonnes, they claimed, showing the IAF's growing strategic airlift capabilities.
Following the confrontations, a slew of fighter jets, notably the Rafale and Mig-29, were sent for combat air patrol, while several IAF helicopters were forced into action to ferry prefabricated structures, ammunition, and military equipment spares to mountainous outposts.
According to the sources, the Su-30 MKI and Jaguar fighter jets had a range of roughly 50 kilometres and assured that the positions and movements of Chinese forces were accurately observed.
According to them, the IAF immediately enhanced its air defence capabilities and combat preparedness by building numerous radars and bringing a variety of surface-to-air guided weapons to frontline bases along the region's LAC.
According to the sources, India's overall strategy was to bolster military posture, maintain credible forces, and monitor enemy build-up to adequately respond with any situation.
- With inputs from agencies
