India has approved an investment of ₹13,000 crore to develop a strategic dual-use airport on Great Nicobar Island, marking a significant step toward enhancing both civilian connectivity and defence capabilities in the Indian Ocean region. The airport will serve commercial aviation needs while also supporting military operations, particularly those of the Indian Navy.
The greenfield airport is a key component of the larger Great Nicobar Island Development Project, a major infrastructure initiative aimed at strengthening India's strategic presence near the Strait of Malacca, one of the world's busiest maritime trade routes. The project is expected to boost regional connectivity, economic development, and maritime security.
According to official sources, construction of the airport is likely to be completed within the next five years. Once operational, the facility will be under the operational control of the Indian Navy while simultaneously handling civilian air traffic, creating a robust dual-purpose aviation hub in the region.
Located near Galathea Bay, the airport is expected to play a critical role in supporting India's strategic and surveillance capabilities across the Indo-Pacific. Its proximity to major international shipping lanes will strengthen the country's ability to monitor maritime activities and respond effectively to regional security challenges.
Beyond defence benefits, the project is expected to improve accessibility to the remote island territory, encourage tourism, facilitate trade, and create new economic opportunities for the Andaman and Nicobar region. The airport will complement other planned infrastructure developments, including logistics facilities, ports, power projects, and urban infrastructure under the broader Great Nicobar master plan.
The investment reflects India's long-term vision of integrating strategic infrastructure with economic growth, positioning Great Nicobar as an important gateway for connectivity, commerce, and maritime cooperation in the Indo-Pacific region.
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