IAF'S Sukhoi-30 MKI lands at revamped Pasighat ALG
Arunachal Pradesh's Pasighat ALG was inaugurated by the Union Minister of State for Home Affairs, Kiren Rijiju, in the presence of prominent military dignitaries. The Indian Air Force's Sukhoi-30 MKI made its landing at the ALG, touted to be a "historic first" for the North-Eastern state. The Pasighat ALG is of significance to India's IAF as it falls just within 100 kilometers from China.
Sukhoi-30 MKI
The Indian Air Force's Sukhoi-30 MKI is a fighter jet that was developed by Russia's Sukhoi and later built by India's Hindustan Aeronautics Limited for the country's Air Force wing. The jet was developed with specifications that were tailored to Indian systems and weather conditions. Entering service in 2004, there are nearly 242 Sukhoi fighter jets with the IAF at present.
Pasighat ALG set to be inaugurated
Pasighat, part of the eastern region of Arunachal Pradesh, saw its Advanced Landing Ground (ALG) which was partially paved and grassy, being taken over for revamping in 2010. The Indian Air Force took over the developmental work to improve connectivity for the north-eastern state. The infrastructural development will help improve the air force's support capability, administration and operations in the region.
Pasighat ALG to improve operational efficiency along North-East
"The Northeast region abundant with rich natural resources is lagging behind in terms of development due to various reasons and the NDA government at the Centre is committed for its development on par with other parts of the country," said the Union Minister Kiren Rijiju.
How will Pasighat ALG's opening improve operations?
Pasighat, known to be the oldest town in the state, opened its doors to the first ever landing of a fighter jet in the whole of Arunachal Pradesh, when it inaugurated. Operating under the Eastern Air Command, it will increase air support across the North-East.
