China has set up 12 airbases on India's northern border

New Delhi, Dt

Tensions between India and China in eastern Ladakh have not abated yet. In addition, China is expanding its air force facilities by expanding new or existing airbases in India's northern border areas. An intelligence report has identified 12 such airbases, not far from Ladakh, Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand.

Most of these airbases in China are in Zhejiang Province. The borders of this province touch the borders of Pakistan, Afghanistan and Russia besides India. In addition, China is developing two new airbases near Arunachal Pradesh. The three airbases near the Indian border include Ali Gunsa, Burang and Tashkent airports. The airport is designed for both civilian and military use.

Tashkent is the most important and latest airport in Pamir near Karakoram Ghat. It is located north of Gilgit in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. Located at an altitude of over 10,000 feet on the plateau, the airport is close to the important Siachen Glacier under Indian control. Construction of China's westernmost airport began after tensions erupted in Ladakh last year. China considers this airport an important strategic base. The airport is close to the borders of Tajikistan, Afghanistan and Pakistan. The airport is expected to be operational by 207. The Karakoram Range north of Ladakh is a very strategic area for both India and China. Around the Karakoram range, China has expanded facilities at five airbases in Hotan, Shache, Kashi, Tashkent and Yutian Wangfang.

In addition, at an altitude of about 12,000 feet from Ladakh, Himachal and Uttarakhand, Ali Gunsa Airport is near the city of Shikanhe in the civil province. It is also called Civil Kunsha Airport. It is 300 km from Ladakh. It is far away and its proximity to Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand increases its strategic importance. Not only this, it is also one of the first class airports.