How Do IAF Jets on the Assam Highway Showcase PM Modi's Defence Readiness Push?
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Guwahati, Feb 12 (NationPress) Assam's Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma expressed on Thursday that the successful operational exercise involving Indian Air Force (IAF) jets at the Emergency Landing Facility (ELF) on the Moran highway signifies the strategic foresight of Prime Minister Narendra Modi in fortifying the nation's defence preparedness.
In a post shared on X, Chief Minister Sarma emphasized that the enhancement of defence readiness nationwide is evident through the development of vital infrastructure capable of addressing various scenarios. He noted that Assam takes pride in contributing to this national initiative, with the Moran ELF facilitating IAF operations as needed.
“The citizens of Assam are amazed. The IAF's landing and take-off operations from the Emergency Landing Facility on the Moran highway are nothing short of extraordinary,” wrote the Assam Chief Minister, attributing this success to the Prime Minister’s leadership in merging sections of national highways with defence infrastructure.
The Moran ELF, constructed along a segment of national highway in Upper Assam, is specifically engineered to allow the landing and take-off of both fighter jets and transport aircraft during emergencies—such as natural disasters—where traditional airbases may not be available.
Officials highlighted that this facility enhances operational flexibility for the IAF, especially in the strategically critical northeastern region.
The exercise has captured significant public interest, with images of the operation circulating widely. Observers viewed this as a testament to India’s growing dual-use infrastructure capabilities.
Under the current government, numerous highways, particularly in vital border and strategic areas, have been upgraded to support defence operations. Assam, which shares international borders and holds a crucial position in the Northeast, has witnessed accelerated infrastructure development in recent years.
CM Sarma confirmed that the state’s highways now fulfill not only connectivity and development needs but also play a role in fortifying national security objectives.