Prime Minister Narendra Modi, during his visit to Gujarat, highlighted the strategic importance of the Deesa air base, which was inaugurated in October 2022. Located in Banaskantha district, approximately 130 km from the Pakistan border, the air base addresses a long-standing gap in India's western air defense network. Modi noted that the project had faced delays for years under previous administrations, but gained momentum after his government prioritized its development. Deesa is expected to function as a Forward Base Support Unit (FBSU), equipped with infrastructure for radars, helicopters, and fighter aircraft operations. This facility will enhance aerial surveillance and military readiness over the Kutch region and protect critical infrastructure, such as the Jamnagar refinery. Furthermore, the base improves the Indian Air Force's (IAF) response capabilities along the western front, connecting operational arcs and reducing response times during contingencies. The proposal for the air base dates back to 2000, and its revival was accelerated by the challenges faced during the 2017 Banaskantha floods. With an area of nearly 4,500 acres, Deesa will operate under the South Western Air Command, significantly bolstering India's military aviation footprint in Gujarat, which will now host five air bases.