IAF Fighter Jets Begins Landing Drills on Ganga Expressway in Shahjahanpur: In a powerful and thrilling display of India’s air strength, the Indian Air Force conducted a major combat drill on the under-construction Ganga Expressway in Shahjahanpur, Uttar Pradesh. The skies over the expressway roared as fighter jets like Rafale, Sukhoi, Jaguar, and Mirage performed landings and takeoffs, exciting everyone watching from the ground.
This special event turned out to be a memorable moment not just for defence personnel but also for hundreds of school students and locals who gathered to witness history in the making.
All You Need to Know
- The Indian Air Force conducted a combat exercise on Friday afternoon on a 3.5 km long airstrip built on the Ganga Expressway in Jalalabad, Shahjahanpur.
- Fighter jets including Rafale, Sukhoi, Jaguar, and Mirage-2000 took part in the operation.
- Transport aircraft like C-130J and the newly inducted C-295 were also seen landing and taking off.
- For the first time ever, fighter jets will also land at night on an Indian expressway.
- This expressway will be used as an emergency runway during war or disaster situations.
- A total of 250 CCTV cameras are installed for safety and surveillance on both sides of the strip.
- The Ganga Expressway passes through 44 villages in Shahjahanpur district.
- The total length of the Ganga Expressway is 594 km from Meerut to Prayagraj.
Major Jets and Aircraft That Participated
- Rafale – Known for its advanced warfare systems and Meteor missiles.
- Sukhoi SU-30 MKI – A heavy-duty fighter developed jointly by India and Russia.
- Jaguar – Designed for ground attack and anti-ship missions.
- Mirage-2000 – Fast, deep-strike aircraft capable of carrying nuclear weapons.
- MiG-29 – High-speed, high-altitude aircraft that can dodge radar.
- C-130J Super Hercules – Used for transporting special forces and disaster aid.
- C-295 – A new transport aircraft ideal for mid-air operations.
- AN-32 – Reliable for supply missions in high-altitude zones.
- MI-17 V5 Helicopter – Multi-purpose helicopter used for search, rescue, and medical tasks.
What Happened During the Event
The Air Force drill began around 12:30 PM when a C-295 aircraft landed smoothly on the airstrip. This was followed by a C-130J, then Jaguar and Sukhoi jets one after another. These aircraft didn’t just land — they also immediately took off, showcasing their quick response abilities.
Meanwhile, children and visitors present at the location were amazed as the fighter planes performed aerial stunts and tight manoeuvres in the sky. The air show lasted for nearly one and a half hours, with the final landings scheduled for night, marking another first for Indian Expressways.
Why this Airstrip is Special
This airstrip is not like others. Built right on a highway, it’s India’s first expressway runway equipped for both daytime and nighttime fighter jet landings. The main aim is to use this infrastructure for emergency defence operations, disaster relief, and national security situations. Special attention has been given to security with advanced monitoring through over 250 CCTV cameras.
Tough Weather, But No Delay
Before the event began, there were fears of delays due to bad weather. Rain and dust storms had hit parts of Shahjahanpur earlier in the day, but luckily, the weather in Jalalabad remained favourable. As soon as the skies cleared, the Air Force gave the green signal, and the drills started as planned.
Security Arrangements and Visitors
To ensure full safety, a team of Indian Air Force officers and jawans had been stationed at the site since 27 April. Even commandos were brought in a day earlier. A total of over 1,000 police personnel were deployed in three shifts. Two temporary hospitals were set up near Piru and Diyura villages for emergency medical aid, supported by six health teams.
Around 500 students and prominent locals were specially invited to witness this grand air display. The moment Rafale jets touched the ground, claps, cheers, and excitement filled the atmosphere.
When Will the Ganga Expressway Open to Public?
The Ganga Expressway is expected to be completed by November 2025. Once ready, it will connect major cities including Meerut, Hapur, Bulandshahr, Amroha, Sambhal, Badaun, Shahjahanpur, Hardoi, Unnao, Rae Bareli, Pratapgarh and Prayagraj, cutting travel time and supporting defence as well.
The Indian Air Force’s combat drill on the Ganga Expressway is not just a display of military might — it is a step towards strengthening national security and infrastructure. By turning roads into emergency runways, India has shown the world that it’s ready for any situation. Locals in Shahjahanpur witnessed a once-in-a-lifetime event that mixed pride, power, and patriotism in one thrilling package.
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FAQs
Where did the fighter jet drill take place?
It happened on a 3.5 km airstrip on the Ganga Expressway in Jalalabad, Shahjahanpur.
Which aircraft participated in the drill?
Fighter jets like Rafale, Sukhoi, Mirage, Jaguar, MiG-29, C-130J, C-295, and AN-32 took part.
Is night landing possible on this expressway?
Yes, this is the first expressway in India where night landings of fighter jets will be done.
When will the Ganga Expressway be opened to the public?
It is expected to open in November 2025 after construction is fully completed.
What is the total length of the Ganga Expressway?
The expressway is 594 kilometres long, connecting Meerut to Prayagraj.
