Archive · 8 Nov 2025
India Withdraws from Ayni Airbase in Tajikistan
Imagine India had a special playground for its planes in another country called Tajikistan, near Afghanistan's border.
India spent a lot of money fixing it up so its big jets could land and take off safely.
This playground gave India a way to see what was happening in Central Asia and was its only such special base outside of India.
However, the agreement to use this playground ended, and India quietly took its planes and people away.
Some people think Russia and China might have encouraged Tajikistan to not let India use the playground anymore.
Losing this base might make it harder for India to keep an eye on a region that is important for security and trade, especially because of its closeness to Afghanistan, Pakistan, and China.
India has withdrawn its military personnel and equipment from the Ayni airbase in Tajikistan, its only full-fledged overseas operational base.
India spent approximately $80 million over two decades to renovate the Soviet-era airbase, upgrading its runway and facilities.
The airbase's strategic location, near Afghanistan's Wakhan Corridor, provided India with a military foothold in Central Asia and leverage over Pakistan.
India's official reason for withdrawal is the conclusion of its bilateral agreement with Tajikistan for the airbase's development and operation.
It is understood that Tajikistan's reluctance to renew the lease may have been influenced by pressure from Russia and China.
- Who
- India
- What
- withdrew its military personnel and equipment from the Ayni airbase
- When
- Began in 2022, became public knowledge recently
- Where
- Ayni airbase, Tajikistan
- Why
- Bilateral agreement concluded; potential pressure from Russia and China cited as underlying reasons.
India's Official Reason
Underlying Factors
Reason for Withdrawal
India's Official Reason
India officially states that its bilateral arrangement with Tajikistan for the rehabilitation and development of the aerodrome concluded, leading to the handover of the facility to Tajikistan in 2022.
Underlying Factors
It is understood that Tajikistan was reluctant to renew the lease due to pressure from Russia and China, prompting India's quiet withdrawal.
- Airbase Name
- Ayni airbase
- Country
- Tajikistan
- India's Investment
- $80 million for renovation
- Renovation Details
- Upgraded runway to 3,200 meters, constructed hangars, fuel depots, and air traffic control facility.
- Personnel Stationed
- Up to 200 Indian military personnel, including Army and IAF staff.
- Aircraft
- Sukhoi 30 MKI jets mentioned among stationed assets.
- Withdrawal Period
- Began in 2022, came to light recently.