Upgraded Runway at Car Nicobar Air Base Boosts India’s Strategic Reach
The Indian Air Force’s Car Nicobar Air Base has marked a major milestone with the inauguration of its newly upgraded runway by Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) General Anil Chauhan. This development is not only a step toward strengthening India’s overall security framework, but also a significant move to enhance the country’s military presence and operational capability in the Eastern Indian Ocean region.
Located in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, the Car Nicobar Air Base occupies a position of immense strategic value for India’s maritime security. Beyond its operational importance, the air base also carries deep historical roots. The original runway was constructed by Japanese forces during their occupation of the islands between 1942 and 1945. In 1956, the Indian Air Force began using the base primarily as a refuelling station to support aircraft operating over the Bay of Bengal.
Over the decades, the importance of the station steadily increased. The runway was extended in 1967, Mi-8 helicopters were deployed there in 1982, and despite suffering heavy damage during the 2004 tsunami, the base was fully restored within just three months. This rapid recovery stood as a strong testament to the dedication, efficiency, and resilience of Indian Air Force personnel.
Strategic Importance of Car Nicobar Air Base
Car Nicobar Air Base is situated around 535 kilometers south of Port Blair in the Nicobar district, making it part of India’s southernmost strategic frontier. Its proximity to the Malacca Strait—one of the world’s most critical maritime chokepoints—adds to its global significance, as a large share of international trade and energy supplies passes through this route.
Serving as a key forward operating base of the Indian Air Force, the station plays a crucial role in maritime surveillance, rapid air response, anti-submarine warfare, and coastal defence operations. The base functions under the Andaman and Nicobar Command (ANC), India’s only tri-service theatre command where the Army, Navy, and Air Force operate in an integrated manner.
Emphasis on Act East Policy and Regional Security
According to senior officials, the CDS’s visit highlights the strategic importance of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands in India’s national security architecture, as well as the country’s continued focus on the Act East Policy. It also reflects the Prime Minister’s vision of ensuring security and sustainable development for all in the region.
During his visit, General Chauhan interacted with senior commanders and underscored the geo-strategic potential of the islands. He acknowledged the vital role played by the Andaman and Nicobar Command in supporting military operations while also contributing to nation-building efforts. The CDS reviewed the command’s operational readiness, ongoing infrastructure projects, and the level of integration among the Army, Navy, Air Force, and Coast Guard.
He further stressed the importance of seamless coordination among the services to enhance surveillance, deterrence, and rapid response capabilities in this strategically sensitive region.