India has significantly advanced in its polar exploration with the unprecedented dispatch of a huge Russian cargo aircraft to Antarctica opening another chapter to its decades-long research activities on the icy continent. The operation is undertaken on October 2, involved the flying of an IL-76 capable of polar landings with more than 18 tons of essential scientific instruments, medical supplies and goods for everyday use for Indian scientists stationed at Maitri and Bharati bases in Antarctica.
From sea to sky: A strategic necessity
Sea transport has been the mode for polar missions for India over the last 60 years, primarily owing to its ability to carry heavy loads of specialized scientific gear. The time and logistics arising at various points such as slow sea freight coupled with shipping delays post-COVID, led to a requirement for India’s polar missions to pursue a new route.
According to the Goa-based National Centre for Polar and Ocean Research (NCPOR) which oversees India’s Arctic and Antarctic expeditions, repeated delays to shipments have affected critical research timelines with air transport being employed for the first time, that was a departure from the norm, albeit at higher costs and with much more complicated logistics.
ALSO READ: What is the AK‑630? Specs, Range, and Firepower You Need to Know
Conquer Chirurgical Airstrips in Antarctica
Antarctica is not one open to booking regular charter flights and aircraft required for operations in the southernmost continent require special capabilities. The IL-76 was elected due to its capabilities for operations on blue-ice runways using low-pressure tyres which defies the normal practice due to the extreme environment of Antarctica.
These ice runways are only operational from October-March and given the limited time window are carefully maintained to enable safe landing. Only pilots with the highest training and test-flight experience are allowed to operate in this extreme environment where they guarantee the safety of personnel and the security of sensitive cargo.
ALSO READ: India-UK Vision 2035: UK PM Starmer’s Strategic Visit to India on Oct 8–9 | CETA Updates
What is Dakshin Gangotri?
The Antarctic research in 1981, India established the first base, Dakshin Gangotri, shortly thereafter. Maitri is functioning from 1989, and Bharati is set up in 2012, exhibit India’s concerted involvement in climate and atmospheric science.
Each base has a dedicated scientific crew involved in climate model generation and environmental awareness on the global scale with air cargo now being feasible, India is possibly setting a precedent for flexible and timely research deployments consolidating its role as a serious player in polar science.
ALSO READ: PM Dhan Dhaanya Krishi Yojana: Who Is Eligible and How to Apply
Disclaimer: This article is based on publicly available information and editorial analysis. It does not represent official government or agency statements.
