India, Nov. 7 -- An Indian Air Force IL-76MD heavy-lift aircraft scripted aviation history by executing its highest-altitude landing anywhere in the world at the 13,629-foot Mudh-Nyoma airbase in Ladakh, with the landmark feat reinforcing India's strategic airlift capability and operational reach, the air force announced on Saturday.

Inaugurated just a year ago, the airbase lies 23km from the contested Line of Actual Control (LAC) with China. The Soviet-origin aircraft made the record-breaking landing on Friday, officials said.

The IAF hailed the feat as "a new height in aviation history."

"A remarkable demonstration of the aircraft's enduring capability, backed by the exceptional skill, precision, and professionalism of its crew. A mi...