IAF To Operate Two Sukhoi Jets In Dehradun

Indian Air Force will deploy two Sukhoi Su-30 MKI fighter jets a routine exercise for activating civil airfield  of Jolly Grant airport in Dehradun this week, which is seen as a strategic move to counter China.

"The detachment would operate from the airfield for two days from Feb 19 for area familiarisation before returning to their parent base," IAF said in a statement.  

"As a routine exercise of activating civil airfield by the IAF, a detachment of two Su-30 MKI aircraft would operate from Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun," the statement added.

The move comes amid increasing assertiveness by Chinese soldiers along nearly 4,000 km-long Sino-India border which includes a portion in Uttarakhand.

According to officials, the Sukhoi fighter jets deployment in Dehradun is part of a move to expand options for any future requirement.