Srinagar: In response to increasing military activities by China, India has initiated night operations in the high-altitude terrains of Ladakh using Dhruv helicopters. This strategic move along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) aims to bolster Indian defenses against perceived Chinese encroachments.
According to Kashmir Media Service, the Indian Army’s deployment of night-time aerial operations is a direct reaction to the enhanced military presence and infrastructural advancements by China in the contested region. The escalation comes at a time when both nations are vying for strategic dominance in the area.
The operations involve rigorous procedures and challenges, particularly due to the harsh and variable high-altitude conditions. Major Ayush Devliyal, a technical supervisor in the Indian Army, highlighted the meticulous process involved in preparing the helicopters for night missions. “Every team checks their specific systems, and after that, the aircraft is certified by an engineering officer for flying,” he explained, underscoring the high standards maintained to ensure safety and effectiveness.
Major Amarendra, a pilot of the Cheetah helicopter, also shed light on the difficulties faced during nocturnal operations. “At night, your depth perception reduces, so we rely more on our instruments. The winds blow stronger at night, so we have to take care of those things, especially turbulent winds,” he stated, describing the additional risks encountered during night flights.
The decision to conduct these operations reflects the seriousness with which India views the recent Chinese military activities near the LAC. The region has seen a tense standoff, with India growing increasingly wary of China’s territorial ambitions, particularly after claims on Arunachal Pradesh. Defense experts in India accuse China of employing a “salami slicing” strategy, subtly seizing territory over time. Conversely, some neutral analysts argue that India’s infrastructure development in Ladakh might have provoked the Chinese response.
The ongoing developments highlight the complex dynamics and heightened vigilance on both sides, signaling a prolonged period of tension along the Indo-Chinese border.
Source: Kashmir Media Service