Historic First: Indian Air Force Conducts Night Fighter Jet Landings on Ganga Expressway

Shahjahanpur, Uttar Pradesh — In a landmark demonstration of military capability and infrastructural innovation, the Indian Air Force (IAF) successfully conducted night landings and take-offs of fighter jets on the Ganga Expressway for the first time. The exercise took place on Friday night and featured frontline aircraft including Rafale, Sukhoi-30MKI, MiG-29, and Jaguar, marking a significant milestone in India’s defense preparedness.

Why This Operation is a Game-Changer

The drill establishes the Ganga Expressway as India’s first expressway capable of facilitating fighter jet operations during both day and night, elevating its strategic value. The exercise showcased “Touch and Go” maneuvers, where jets briefly land and immediately take off—crucial for quick deployment and evacuation scenarios.

• Emergency Airstrip: The expressway now doubles as a 3.5-km-long emergency runway.

• National Prestige: India joins a select group of countries, including the U.S., China, and Germany, that have successfully integrated highway-based fighter operations.

• Defense Preparedness: The initiative enhances combat readiness amid growing security challenges along India’s borders.

Air Show Thrills Thousands Despite Weather Hurdles

The event began earlier in the day with an aerial display featuring transport and combat aircraft including the C-130J Super Hercules, Mirage-2000, and MI-17 helicopters, all taking off from Trishul Airbase in Bareilly. Simulated combat scenarios were executed, including rappelling exercises by Indian Army personnel, drawing thousands of spectators to the site despite inclement weather.

Strategic Context: Strengthening India’s Wartime Mobility

With ongoing tensions and the unpredictability of modern warfare, this operation sends a strong message about India’s growing defensive versatility. Should key airbases be compromised during conflict or natural disasters, converted highways like Ganga Expressway can act as critical alternative landing zones for fighter aircraft and troop movement.

This drill comes at a time when rapid response capabilities are of paramount importance, especially considering regional geopolitical dynamics, including India-Pakistan border tensions.

Fact Highlights:

First-ever night landing on an Indian expressway
Over 15 aircraft including Rafale, Sukhoi-30, MiG-29, and Jaguar participated
3.5 KM stretch designated and prepared for fighter operations
Exercise signals IAF’s enhanced operational flexibility and night-readiness