New Delhi, Sept 2026 : The Indian Army conducted a highway landing exercise on National Highway 911 near Dantour in Rajasthan, close to the India-Pakistan International Border, demonstrating its ability to operate helicopters from alternative landing sites in challenging operational conditions.
During the exercise, Rudra, Dhruv and Chetak helicopters of the Army Aviation Corps carried out controlled landing and take-off operations from a designated stretch of the highway.
The drill demonstrated the Army's capability to continue aviation operations when conventional airfields, airbases or established helipads are unavailable, damaged or inaccessible.
As part of the exercise, pilots practised approaching and departing from the road surface, while ground teams coordinated helicopter movements and maintained communication with the aircrew at the temporary landing zone.
The exercise focused on operational flexibility, rapid deployment, air-ground coordination and mission readiness, particularly in Rajasthan's desert terrain. Long distances, harsh weather conditions and limited aviation infrastructure can pose challenges to military operations in the region.
The Dhruv is a twin-engine Advanced Light Helicopter designed and developed in India by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL). Its armed variant, Rudra, is designed for missions including reconnaissance, escort and fire support.
The Chetak helicopter, also manufactured by HAL in India, is based on the French Alouette III design and is used for a range of operational and support roles.
For the duration of the drill, a section of NH-911, normally used by civilian and commercial traffic, was converted into a controlled tactical aviation zone. The exercise demonstrated how existing road infrastructure can be utilised to support helicopter operations during emergencies or high-tempo military situations.
The highway landing drill also highlighted the importance of maintaining operational readiness beyond conventional military aviation infrastructure. The ability to use road sections as temporary landing areas can provide additional flexibility for the movement and deployment of helicopters when established facilities are unavailable.
By transforming a national highway into a temporary military landing area, the exercise showcased the Army Aviation Corps' preparedness and adaptability, while reinforcing the importance of rapid response capabilities in areas where conventional aviation facilities may be limited or compromised.
(Disclaimer :The content of this article is sourced from a news agency and has not been edited by the Mavericknews30 team.)
