Khada Bulak Air Base

The air base was closed following the dissolution of the Soviet Union. Its closure was part of the large-scale reduction of armed forces and military restructuring in the newly formed Russian Federation. The primary aviation regiment stationed at the base was disbanded, leading to the airfield's deactivation due to strategic realignment and economic constraints.

The Khada Bulak Air Base is completely abandoned and in a state of advanced decay. Satellite imagery shows the runway, taxiways, and aircraft revetments are still clearly visible but are cracked, weathered, and being reclaimed by nature. Most of the support buildings and barracks are derelict, with many having collapsed roofs or being stripped of valuable materials. The site is not used for any official or civilian purpose and is effectively a military ghost town.

Khada Bulak was a significant frontal aviation air base within the Soviet Transbaikal Military District, strategically located near the borders with China and Mongolia. Its primary purpose was to support ground forces and conduct strike missions. The base was home to the 53rd Guards Fighter-Bomber Aviation Regiment (53 Gv APIB), which was part of the 23rd Air Army. Throughout its operational history, the regiment flew various aircraft, starting with the MiG-21 and later upgrading to the Mikoyan MiG-27 (NATO reporting name: Flogger-D/J) fighter-bomber. The base featured a long concrete runway and numerous hardened aircraft shelters (HAS) to protect its assets, highlighting its importance during the Cold War, particularly during periods of Sino-Soviet tension.

There are no known official plans or credible prospects for reopening the Khada Bulak Air Base. The cost to restore the heavily deteriorated infrastructure, including the runway and support facilities, would be prohibitive. The Russian Air Force maintains other active air bases in the region, such as Domna Air Base, which fulfill the current strategic needs. Given its remote location and dilapidated condition, reopening is considered highly improbable.