Itanagar, Sept 19: In a strategic development with potential military implications, China is building a new heliport just 20 kilometers east of the Line of Actual Control (LAC) near the ‘Fishtails’ region of Arunachal Pradesh, as reported by India Today. The heliport, situated in Tibet’s Nyingchi Prefecture along the Gongrigabu Qu River, is expected to enhance China’s military capabilities in the area, raising concerns in India about increasing Chinese activity along the disputed border.
Satellite images from December 2023 show that land clearing for the heliport began late last year, with recent images from September 2024 indicating the facility is nearing completion. Geospatial intelligence expert Damien Symon noted that the heliport will boost China’s ability to conduct surveillance and quickly deploy troops in remote areas.
Although the heliport is within undisputed Chinese territory, its proximity to the sensitive Fishtails region—where India and China differ on the LAC’s alignment—has sparked concern. The heliport’s strategic location at an altitude of 5,000 feet allows aircraft to carry heavier payloads, giving China an operational edge in the region.
While the heliport is primarily a military installation, it could also be used for civilian purposes, such as transporting people to isolated areas. Its main function, however, will be to enhance China’s military readiness and speed up troop mobilization in case of an emergency. The site includes multiple hangars and necessary infrastructure, reflecting China’s efforts to strengthen military logistics in the area.
This project is part of China’s broader strategy of building dual-use villages near disputed borders, gradually asserting territorial control without direct conflict. Similar tactics have been seen in Bhutan, where China has developed infrastructure in contested regions, quietly advancing its claims.
With the heliport nearing completion, India’s concerns over China’s expanding military presence along the border are likely to intensify, further complicating the tense relationship between the two nations.
