On February 14, Prime Minister Narendra Modi made a significant landing in Assam's Dibrugarh on India's very first Highway Emergency Landing Facility (ELF) using the C-130J Super Hercules aircraft of the Indian Air Force. This unique facility has been established on a highway strip in Upper Assam, and it is designed to serve as an alternative landing spot for fighter jets, transport aircraft, and helicopters during wartime or emergency situations. The establishment of the ELF marks an important step in bolstering the defense and strategic preparedness of Northeast India, particularly given its proximity to the India-China border.

The Highway Emergency Landing Facility is essentially a stretch of highway that normally accommodates vehicular traffic but can be converted into a runway for aircraft landings when necessary. The Dibrugarh ELF is strategically located close to the India-China border, enhancing the operational capabilities of the Indian Air Force in the region. This facility is vital for ensuring rapid response and deployment capabilities in case of emergencies, thereby improving national security.

The preparations for the ELF have been extensive, with successful full-scale rehearsals already conducted. Various aircraft have successfully landed and taken off from the highway strip, demonstrating its viability as an emergency runway. These drills included 'touch and go' maneuvers and combat formation landings, proving that the facility can effectively fulfill its intended purpose during critical times when every moment counts.