The Indian Air Force (IAF) has achieved a historic milestone after successfully landing its Russian-origin IL-76 heavy-lift transport aircraft at the Nyoma Airbase in eastern Ladakh, located at an altitude of over 13,600 feet. According to the IAF, this is the highest-altitude landing ever achieved by an IL-76 aircraft anywhere in the world. The force praised the exceptional skill, precision, and professionalism of the crew for completing the challenging mission.

Nyoma Airbase lies around 25 kilometres from the Line of Actual Control (LAC) with China, making it one of India’s most strategically important military installations. Operational since last year, the high-altitude airbase is capable of handling fighter jets, helicopters, and heavy transport aircraft. The IAF said the successful landing significantly strengthens India’s strategic airlift capability and demonstrates its ability to conduct operations in some of the world’s toughest conditions.

Nyoma is the fourth major air force base in Ladakh after Leh, Kargil, and Thoise. The Defence Ministry has been steadily upgrading infrastructure at airfields and Advanced Landing Grounds (ALGs) along the LAC to enhance operational readiness. It is also expanding facilities at the Daulat Beg Oldi Advanced Landing Ground, situated at approximately 16,700 feet, which is regarded as the world’s highest airfield and plays a vital role in India’s border defence strategy.