A tragic incident occurred in Assam after a Sukhoi Su-30MKI fighter jet of the Indian Air Force crashed during a training mission, resulting in the death of two pilots. The accident took place in the Karbi Anglong district, sending shockwaves across the defence community and the nation.
According to official reports, the fighter aircraft had taken off from the Jorhat Air Force base in Assam on a routine training sortie. Shortly after takeoff, communication with the aircraft was lost, raising concerns among authorities. Defence officials stated that radar contact with the aircraft was lost at around 7:42 pm before the jet eventually crashed in a remote hilly area of the district.
The Indian Air Force later confirmed that both pilots on board the aircraft lost their lives in the crash. The officers were identified as Squadron Leader Anuj and Flight Lieutenant Purvesh Duragkar. The IAF expressed deep condolences to the families of the deceased pilots and acknowledged their service and sacrifice for the nation.
Local residents reported hearing a loud explosion from a nearby hill before seeing flames rising from the crash site. Emergency response teams and defence personnel rushed to the location to conduct rescue and recovery operations. Due to the difficult terrain and remote location, the operation required careful coordination among different agencies.
The Sukhoi Su-30MKI is one of the most advanced fighter jets used by the Indian Air Force. Developed by Russian aircraft manufacturer Sukhoi and produced in India by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited, the aircraft has been a key part of India’s air defence capabilities since it was inducted into service in the late 1990s.
Following the accident, defence authorities are expected to launch a detailed investigation to determine the cause of the crash. Such inquiries usually examine technical issues, weather conditions, and operational factors to identify what may have led to the tragic incident.
The loss of two experienced pilots has been widely mourned across the country. Leaders and defence officials have expressed their condolences, remembering the courage and dedication of the officers who served the nation with honor.