• Source:JND
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The Indian Air Force (IAF) conducted a flypast and landing exercise on a 3.5-kilometre-long airstrip along the under-construction Ganga Expressway in Uttar Pradesh's Shahjahanpur on Friday. This strategic drill involved take-offs and landings by fighter and transport aircraft, including Rafale, Jaguar, and Mirage jets, showcasing the IAF's operational readiness.

The operation aims to assess the expressway's viability as an alternative runway during wartime or national emergencies. This marks the first such airstrip in the country specifically designed to support both day and night fighter jet landings, positioning it as a crucial asset for national defence preparedness and training.

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The district administration confirmed that the air show would be conducted in two phases: during the day and at night (from 7 PM to 10 PM). Fighter jets will execute low fly-pasts at an altitude of just one metre, followed by landing and take-off drills to test night-time operational capabilities.

Approximately 250 CCTV cameras have been installed along both sides of the airstrip to ensure robust security. The IAF has taken full operational control of the airstrip for the exercise, coordinating with the Uttar Pradesh Expressways Industrial Development Authority (UPEIDA).

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The airstrip has been engineered with specialised materials to endure the weight and stress of military aircraft. Key features include reinforced pavement, precision approach lighting, and a CAT II Instrument Landing System (ILS), enabling safe operations in low visibility and night-time conditions.

(With ANI Inputs)