Ladakh, April 9 — Tucked away in the rugged terrain of eastern Ladakh lies Daulat Beg Oldi (DBO), the highest airfield in the world, perched at a staggering altitude of 5,065 meters (16,617 feet) above sea level. This strategically vital airstrip gained international attention in 2013, when the Indian Air Force (IAF) successfully landed a C-130J Super Hercules aircraft there, marking its official reactivation.
Located just a few kilometers from the Line of Actual Control (LAC) near the China border, Daulat Beg Oldi plays a critical role in India’s high-altitude military logistics and rapid deployment capabilities. The landing of the Super Hercules—a military transport aircraft designed for tactical missions—demonstrated the IAF’s ability to operate in one of the most extreme environments on Earth.
Originally built in the 1960s, the airstrip had remained largely inactive until its historic revival in 2013. The successful operation showcased not just India’s aerial prowess, but also the technological and human capability to function in low-oxygen, high-altitude zones under demanding conditions.
With its unique geographical importance and record-setting elevation, Daulat Beg Oldi remains a symbol of India’s strategic strength and high-altitude aviation excellence.
