IAF's IL-76 Makes World's Highest-Altitude Landing At Ladakh's Nyoma Airbase Near China Border

The Indian Air Force's IL-76MD heavy-lift aircraft has landed at the Mudh-Nyoma airbase in eastern Ladakh at an altitude of 13,700 feet, marking the highest-altitude landing by this aircraft type anywhere in the world. Located close to the Line of Actual Control, Nyoma has a three-kilometre runway capable of handling fighter jets and heavy transport aircraft. The forward airbase is expected to reduce troop deployment and response times while supporting the movement of military supplies and emergency evacuations. Nyoma became Ladakh's fourth IAF base in November 2025. The development comes as China continues expanding its network of high-altitude airbases across the Tibetan Plateau.