In a proactive measure to bolster its defense capabilities, India has initiated the deployment of MiG-29 fighter aircraft in Srinagar, effectively replacing the existing MiG-21 squadron at the air base. The decision aims to fortify the nation’s security apparatus by addressing potential threats from both the Pakistani and Chinese borders. The ‘Tridents’ squadron, renowned as the ‘Defender of the North,’ assumes the mantle of safeguarding India’s northern borders from the strategically located Srinagar air base.
News agency ANI reported that the MiG-29 were relocated to the Srinagar air base in January this year. Since then, they have been actively patrolling the skies over the Kashmir valley and the Ladakh sector. Notably, these fighter jets play a pivotal role in being among the first responders to any airspace violation attempts from the Chinese side. This initiative follows the deployment of the MiG-29s to the Ladakh sector after the Galwan clash in 2020, where they successfully thwarted multiple threats.
Speaking to ANI, Squadron Leader Vipul Sharma of the Indian Air Force highlighted the strategic reasoning behind the choice of the MiG-29s for the Srinagar air base. He explained, “Srinagar lies in the center of the Kashmir valley, and its elevation is higher than plains. It is strategically better to place an aircraft with a higher weight-to-thrust ratio and less response time due to proximity to the border and equipped with better avionics and long-range missiles.” He added that the MiG-29 fulfills these criteria, rendering the Indian Air Force capable of responding effectively to threats from both fronts.
Squadron Leader Shivam Rana added insights into the advanced capabilities of the upgraded MiG-29s. These aircraft are equipped to operate at night with the assistance of night vision goggles and boast an extended operational range through air-to-air refueling capabilities. Additionally, the aircraft have been equipped with air-to-ground armaments, enhancing their versatility.
Comparatively, the MiG-29s possess numerous advantages over their predecessor, the MiG-21s. The former has been outfitted with very long-range air-to-air missiles and upgraded air-to-ground weaponry. Furthermore, the MiG-29’s enhanced capabilities stem from a combination of advanced weaponry, night operational capabilities, and extended range due to air-to-air refueling capacity.
The deployment of MiG-29s comes amid a context of upgrades and modernization in India’s defense forces. The move to replace the aging MiG-21s with MiG-29s signifies the nation’s commitment to enhancing its capabilities in the face of evolving security challenges. As the upgraded MiG-29s take on the role of safeguarding India’s borders, they stand as a testament to India’s dedication to securing its sovereignty and maintaining a strong defense posture.