IAF begins modernisation of the Hindon Air Force station. The airfield will get C-130J Hercules tactical transport aircraft and sensitive radars

As part of its efforts to bring its airfields to world-class standards, the Indian Air Force (IAF) has begun modernisation process with the Hindon Air Force station under the Modernisation of Air Field Infrastructure programme (MAFI).

u00a0Last year, nine airfields in the Western Air Command (WAC) were chosen by IAF for modernisation under the programme.

Hindon air force station in Ghaziabad is the first to be modernized because of its proximity to Delhi and the increasing aerial threat to the capital.

MAFI, which include flying aids and equipment, will enable the airbases to operate all types of aircraft including fighters and transport fleet.

"The base will be ready by 2011 and will be equipped with some of the most modern assets of the IAF.
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After Hindon, the MAFI's project will be carried out at other airfields nationwide.
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The pilot project is to modernise the infrastructure of our airfields, making them suitable for operating all types of aircraft," said a senior IAF officer on the condition of anonymity.u00a0

The contract for C-130J Hercules has been signed with the US and they will be deployment at Hindon airbase.
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Sources in the Ministry of Defence (MoD) also said that the planes will be exclusively used by the Special Forces (SF).

"The SFs will use the plane to tackle terror attacks in any part of the country and other such threats," said a MoD official.

Besides, the Hercules transport aircraft, IAF will also induct most sensitive radars on the base to help the purpose.
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The radars will be capable of operating in all weather condition.

Meanwhile, after the 26/11 Mumbai attacks government has also decided to establish anti-terror hubs in various parts of the country to deploy commandos trained in anti-terrorist drill.

"The new Hindon base too can be used by the National Security Guards (NSG) commandos to reach any part of the country.

The Hercules too will have special qualities for commando-based operations. IAF has also raised Garud commandos which are presently based at Chandipur airbase in Orissa," said the officer.