Indian Air Force Plans Fighter Squadron at Mizoram’s Lengpui Airport Amid Geopolitical Concerns

The Indian Air Force (IAF) is looking to fast-track the development of a new airbase adjacent to Lengpui Airport in Mizoram, driven by evolving geopolitical concerns related to Myanmar and Bangladesh. This strategic move aims to strengthen India’s aerial defense capabilities in the Northeast region, which has seen increasing security sensitivities in recent years.

According to reliable sources, an Air Marshal from the IAF expressed keen interest in advancing the Lengpui airbase project during a high-level security meeting held on February 15. The meeting, chaired by Union Home Secretary Govind Mohan, included officials from the Home Ministry, Mizoram government, BSF, Assam Rifles, and intelligence agencies.

Mizoram Government’s Response and Land Acquisition

The Mizoram government has agreed in principle to allocate 200 acres of land adjacent to the existing Lengpui commercial airport, located 32 km northeast of Aizawl. The IAF’s plan includes stationing fighter aircraft and establishing a refuelling facility, reinforcing security in the region.

Once the Mizoram government grants official approval, the IAF will initiate the land acquisition process for the proposed Lengpui Air Force Station. The primary objectives of this strategic airbase will be to enhance air surveillance and defense operations covering Myanmar, Bangladesh, and the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.

IAF’s Presence in Northeast India

Currently, the main IAF airbases in Northeast India are located at Tezpur and Chabua in Assam. The IAF also operates transport facilities in Silchar, Jorhat, Dibrugarh (Assam), Bagdogra (West Bengal), and Shillong (Meghalaya). Additionally, the Border Security Force (BSF) operates helicopters from Agartala (Tripura) and Guwahati (Assam).

By establishing an air force station at Lengpui, the IAF aims to bolster India’s air defense in the region, allowing quicker response times and improved surveillance over sensitive border areas.

Political Opposition and Concerns

Despite its strategic importance, the proposal has faced political opposition in Mizoram. The Mizo National Front (MNF), led by former Chief Minister Zoramthanga, has resisted the IAF’s move to take control of Lengpui Airport.

On February 15, MNF legislators, led by Lalchhandama Ralte, visited Lengpui Airport and criticized the ruling Zoram People’s Movement (ZPM) government under Chief Minister Lalduhoma for considering the IAF proposal.

Ralte raised two major concerns regarding the IAF’s plans:

1. Impact on Commercial Aviation:
   • With Mizoram’s proximity to China and Myanmar, the transformation of Lengpui Airport into a fighter aircraft base could disrupt commercial flight operations, affecting the state’s economy.
2. Noise Pollution and Environmental Impact:
   • The operation of fighter jets could lead to increased noise pollution, potentially disrupting local communities and commercial activities around Aizawl and Lengpui.

IAF’s Efforts Since 2016

The IAF has been attempting to acquire land at Lengpui since 2016, but political disagreements and lack of consensus have stalled the project. The previous governments led by Lal Thanhawla (Congress) and Zoramthanga (MNF) had delayed the approval of the IAF’s plans.

However, the current security environment has renewed efforts to establish the airbase, with the Union Government pushing for the project’s clearance.

Geopolitical and Strategic Importance

Mizoram’s geopolitical importance has grown due to the instability in Myanmar, where armed conflicts and cross-border tensions have increased. Strengthening India’s air defense in Mizoram would enhance the country’s ability to monitor border movements and respond swiftly to regional threats.

Furthermore, given China’s growing influence in South Asia, an air force station in Mizoram would complement India’s defense preparedness, particularly in the Eastern Sector.

While the IAF is determined to proceed with the project, the final decision rests with the Mizoram government. If approved, the IAF airbase at Lengpui could majorly enhance India’s military presence in the Northeast, ensuring better national security and air superiority in the region.

As discussions continue, the fate of the proposed IAF fighter squadron in Mizoram will depend on the state government’s approval and political negotiations. However, given the growing security concerns in the Indo-Myanmar and Indo-Bangladesh border areas, the project is likely to gain momentum in the near future.