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China developing new fighter aircraft base near Eastern Ladakh

Last Updated on July 20, 2021 at 8:05 pm

China is developing an airbase for fighter aircraft operations close to the Eastern Ladakh area in Shakche town in the Xinjiang province. The base is being built between the existing airbases of Kashgar and Hogan.

The gap between the existing air bases in China close to the LAC for fighter aircraft operations was around 400 kms but this would be bridged with the operationalisation of the Shakche airfield.

As per reports, Shakche town already has an airbase, which is upgraded for fighter aircraft operations. Indian agencies have been keeping a close watch on the development of a Chinese air base in Shakche. As well as, India has been monitoring seven bases of the Chinese People’s Liberation Army (PLA) air force since May of last year.

India is also keeping a watch on three PLA Air Force bases opposite eastern Ladakh – Kashgar, Hotan and Ngari Gunsa. Other Chinese airbases which Indian agencies monitoring  includes Shigatse, Lhasa Gongkar, Nyingchi and Chamdo Pangta.