The Indian Air Force activated an Emergency Landing Facility (ELF) on the Purvanchal Expressway in Uttar Pradesh’s Sultanpur district, demonstrating day and night operational capability. The exercise tested the use of a highway airstrip for military flying operations and brought into light the readiness of aircrew, ground teams and supporting agencies. It also underlined the growing role of expressway-based airstrips in national security and emergency response.
Exercise on Purvanchal Expressway
The ELF was activated on a selected stretch of the Purvanchal Expressway. Multiple aircraft carried out landing and take-off operations during the drill. The exercise was designed to validate the operational use of the facility in both daylight and night-time conditions.
Aircraft and Units Involved
A wide range of platforms participated in the exercise. These included:
- Jaguar
- Mirage-2000
- Sukhoi-30 MKI
- C-295
- AN-32
- Mi-17 V5 helicopter
- Garud Commando team
The participation of multiple aircraft types demonstrated the flexibility of the facility for varied operational requirements.
Operational Significance
The drill validated standard operating procedures for rapid activation of highway airstrips. Such facilities are important when conventional runways are unavailable or damaged. They improve the IAF’s ability to maintain air operations during emergencies, conflict situations and disaster response missions. The exercise also showed the coordination between the IAF, the Uttar Pradesh Expressways Industrial Development Authority and the local civil administration.
Strategic Value of Highway Airstrips
Expressway airstrips serve as force multipliers in national defence planning. They expand operational reach, improve resilience and support quick mobilisation. In addition to military use, they can assist in humanitarian relief, evacuation and disaster management. The drill reinforced the importance of infrastructure that can support both defence preparedness and civil emergency needs.
Last Modified: April 25, 2026