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Air Force Station Naliya, a key Indian Air Force (IAF) facility in Gujarat's coastal region, is preparing to induct the advanced, indigenously developed Tejas Mk1A fighter jet. This move signifies a major upgrade for the base, which will host the first squadron of these modern aircraft, replacing the aging MiG-21Bis fleet.
Strategically positioned less than 100 kilometres from the sensitive Sir Creek area near the Pakistan border, the Naliya airbase is crucial for India's western air defence. The base has already integrated the earlier Tejas Mk1 variant in its Final Operational Clearance (FOC) configuration.
The upcoming transition to the Tejas Mk1A marks a significant advancement in the IAF's modernization efforts and strengthens India's goal of achieving self-sufficiency in defence manufacturing.
For many years, Naliya served as a vital forward operating base, primarily housing squadrons of the MiG-21Bis. This aircraft, an upgraded version of a Soviet-era design introduced in the 1970s, was a mainstay of India's air power for decades.
However, the IAF is set to retire the entire MiG-21 fleet by the end of 2025 due to concerns about their age and operational safety. Naliya is now playing a central role in this planned phase-out.
In preparation for the Tejas Mk1A, the IAF strategically deployed the FOC version of the Tejas Mk1 to Naliya. This initial deployment, which included relocating No. 18 Squadron ("Flying Bullets") to the base by September 2024, allowed the IAF to establish the necessary ground infrastructure and operational procedures for the indigenous fighter. It provided essential experience in adapting everything from maintenance facilities to pilot training for the Tejas platform.
Significant upgrades have been undertaken at Naliya over the past year to accommodate the next generation of fighter aircraft. These improvements include reinforced aircraft shelters (blast-proof hangars), modern radar systems, and specialized maintenance areas designed for the Tejas jets.
Given its close aerial proximity to the Pakistan border (approximately 40-50 km), the base's ability to launch rapid air defence and response missions is paramount. Replacing the MiG-21Bis with the more capable Tejas Mk1A is expected to substantially boost Naliya's operational effectiveness, offering enhanced speed, manoeuvrability, weapon capabilities, and pilot safety.
