India Activates Pan-India Emergency Landing Facilities for Enhanced Operational Capabilities

The Indian Air Force (IAF) has initiated the activation of Emergency Landing Facilities (ELFs) across India, starting with a significant operation in the Kashmir valley as part of exercise Gagan Shakti-24.

Key Highlights:

• Nighttime Operations: Utilizing aircraft such as the Chinook, Mi-17 V5, and ALH Mk-III helicopters, the IAF successfully airlifted and air-landed a large number of troops by night in the northern sector.
  

• Nationwide Activation Plans: The IAF aims to extend ELF activation practices in collaboration with state governments, emphasizing the importance of planning and coordination with civil administrations.
  

• Enhanced Operational Capabilities: These operations not only demonstrate the IAF's ability to operate from constrained landing surfaces but also bolster its capabilities for Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief during natural calamities.

Conclusion:

The activation of ELFs nationwide signifies a strategic enhancement of the Indian Armed Forces' operational readiness and disaster response efficiency.

Keywords to Remember:

• Emergency Landing Facility (ELF): Specialized landing areas activated for military operations and disaster relief efforts.
  

• Whole-of-the-Nation-Approach (WNA): A collaborative strategy involving coordination between military forces and civil administrations for comprehensive national defense and disaster management.
  

• Operational Capabilities: The abilities and readiness of military forces to conduct operations effectively under various conditions.

Link to Article : Press Information Bureau (pib.gov.in)

Released On : 04 April 2024