The Indian Army has achieved a remarkable milestone by establishing two of the world's highest tank repair facilities in Eastern Ladakh, a region that has seen significant military activity since the India-China standoff began in April-May 2020. These facilities are located in Nyoma and the DBO Sector, at altitudes exceeding 14,500 feet, making them one of the highest such installations globally.
With over 500 tanks and infantry combat vehicles deployed in the area, the Indian Army has strategically placed these maintenance hubs to ensure the operational readiness of its armoured units. The harsh terrain and extreme weather conditions of Eastern Ladakh, particularly in winter, pose significant challenges for maintaining and repairing these vehicles. The new Medium Maintenance (Reset) Facilities are designed to mitigate these challenges, ensuring that the army's T-90 and T-72 tanks, BMP combat vehicles, and Quick Reaction Fighting Vehicles remain combat-ready.
"The tanks and infantry combat vehicles have been deployed in these super-high-altitude areas, where it is very difficult even to get them back for maintenance and repair," Indian Army officials told ANI. The facilities at Nyoma and near KM-148 on the DS-DBO Road in the DBO sector are critical for sustaining operations in this strategically important region.
Army Chief General Manoj Pande recently visited one of the new maintenance facilities, where he witnessed the unique infrastructure designed to enhance the serviceability and reliability of armored fighting vehicles (AFVs). According to army officials, these facilities ensure that the combat fleet remains operational despite the rugged terrain and temperatures that can drop to minus 40 degrees Celsius.
The establishment of these facilities has significantly improved the Indian Army's operational efficiency and battle readiness in the region. By positioning specialist technical support infrastructure closer to the front lines, the army can maintain higher standards of operational capability, even in one of the world's most challenging environments.
The backdrop to this development is the ongoing standoff between India and China in Eastern Ladakh, with both countries having deployed around 50,000 troops each along the border. In response to Chinese military build-up and aggression, the Indian Army swiftly mobilized its heavy armored units, utilizing C-17 transport aircraft to rapidly transport them from other regions of India.
The efforts to set up these high-altitude maintenance facilities reflect the Indian Army's unwavering commitment to safeguarding the nation. By ensuring that its combat vehicles are always ready for action, even in the most inhospitable conditions, the military continues to uphold its duty to protect the country's sovereignty and security. This dedication is a testament to the relentless efforts and sacrifices made by the armed forces to defend the nation against all threats.
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