about from Pakistan Administered Kashmir across the corridor, having the ability to operate from Tajikistan, IAF fighters could target Peshawar from Tajikistan, which would put additional pressure on the resources of Pakistan. The IAF appointed then Group Captain Naseem Akhtar (Retd) to begin the work on the airbase. Akhtar, who retired as Air Commodore, was followed by another officer. The Indian government also involved the Border Roads Organisation (BRO) team which was led by a Brigadier. At that point in time, there were around 200 Indians working on the project and the airstrip at Gissar was extended to 3,200 metres — long enough for most fixed-wing aircraft to land and take-off. Besides this, the Indian team also developed hangars, overhauling and the refuelling capacity of aircraft. It is estimated that India spent close to $US100 million developing the base. Air Chief Marshal Birender Singh Dhanoa was appointed the first Base Commander of the base around the end of 2005 when he was a Group Captain. See also Geostrategy in Central Asia Farkhor Air Base References Tajik Air Force Aviation in Tajikistan Airports in Tajikistan Indian Overseas Military bases Indian Air Force bases Districts of Republican Subordination Military installations in Tajikistan Soviet Air Force bases