ISLAMABAD: Indian Air Force helicopter engaged in routine operations hasbeen compelled to make emergency landings in agricultural fields and openareas because of severe fuel shortages at forward bases, defence sourcesdisclosed on Tuesday.
Military insiders revealed that aviation turbine fuel stocks at multipleair stations in northern and western India have fallen critically low,leaving pilots with no option but to divert to makeshift landing zones andawait road tankers dispatched from rear bases sometimes hundreds ofkilometres away.
Defence analysts warn that prolonged shortages could hamper operationalreadiness along the border with Pakistan and China, especially during theupcoming winter months when helicopter support becomes vital forhigh-altitude posts.
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Source:www.thehindu.com/news/national/indian-air-force-facing-acute-fuel-shortage/article68901234.ece”>https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/indian-air-force-facing-acute-fuel-shortage/article68901234.ece