Pakistan is currently upgrading its high-altitude forward air base at Skardu, named PAF Qadri. The plans are aimed at recarpeting the runways at a cost of 44 million rupees, with tenders being released earlier this month. The forward operating base was converted into a main operating base in 2021.
Skardu Airbase, located within 200Km of both Leh and Srinagar India, provides Pakistan with strategic capability extension in the region and defence over China’s CPEC (China-Pakistan Economic Corridor) projects. The base has undergone a major overhaul, which was ongoing until 2019. It is reported that Pakistan has deployed JF-17 fighter aircraft at the Skardu Airbase.
The base serves as a key operational hub for the Pakistan Air Force, facilitating air defence operations, surveillance missions, and rapid response capabilities in the region. It is equipped with modern infrastructure, including hangars, maintenance facilities, and command centres, to support various aircraft operations.
May 2024
Source: Tender notices