From Target to Talks Hub: US Plane Lands at Pakistani Airbase Hit by India

Islamabad: Pakistan's Noor Khan Airbase (which was also earlier known as Chakala Airbase) has again become a topic of discussion these days. Located near Rawalpindi, this airbase is an important transportation and logistics hub of Pakistan Air Force (PAF). Its strategic location makes it special not only for military activities but also from a diplomatic point of view. It is just a few kilometers away from Islamabad and very close to the Strategic Plans Division of Pakistan (dealing with the nuclear program).

When and why did India target it?

In May 2025, when tensions between India and Pakistan increased, India launched a missile and drone attack on this airbase under Operation Vermillion. This attack was in response to the terrorist attack in Pahalgam. The airbase's operations room, mobile control centers, fuel trucks and some hangars were damaged in the attack. Pakistan later admitted that some military facilities were damaged and some soldiers were injured in the attack. India described it as a limited and precise response, the aim of which was to create pressure without getting involved in a major war.

What is the relation of this airbase with America?

Noor Khan Airbase has also been important for America for the last several years. During the Afghanistan War after 2001, movement of American aircraft and logistics support was seen here. American soldiers and aircraft were also deployed here during the 2005 earthquake relief work. Because of this, the name of this base kept coming up in international discussions.

Now why did this airbase come into discussion?

Recently, amidst tension and ceasefire efforts between America and Iran, Pakistan is hosting peace talks between the two countries in Islamabad. The Iranian delegation (including Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf and Foreign Minister Abbas Aragchi) and US Vice President JD Vance's team landed at Noor Khan Air Base. Pakistan Air Force jets escorted the Iranian aircraft. Both sides are sitting in separate rooms and holding proximity talks, in which Pakistan is playing the role of mediator. This is the reason why the old base is once again in the headlines.

Will this affect regional politics?

Experts believe that such military bases are not limited to defense only. These also become important centers of international diplomacy and politics. Noor Khan airbase is a good example of this. First there was a military attack here, now diplomatic talks are taking place. Pakistan wants to use this opportunity to strengthen its mediating role, whereas if there is a concrete agreement between America and Iran, the situation in the entire Middle East can change.

What's going to happen next?

There was an attack by India on Nur Khan Airbase in 2025 and later there were reports of attack from Afghanistan. On the other hand now America-Iran talks are taking place here. If the ceasefire becomes stronger in the coming days, then this base will be remembered in the direction of peace; otherwise, if the tension increases then it may come into military discussion again.