Sukhoi Su-30MKI Crash in Assam: Two IAF Pilots Killed After Jet Goes Down

Two pilots of the Indian Air Force (IAF) lost their lives after a Sukhoi Su-30MKI fighter jet crashed in Assam’s Karbi Anglong district during a routine training mission. The tragic incident occurred shortly after the aircraft took off from Jorhat Air Force Station on Thursday evening.

The Indian Air Force confirmed the deaths of Squadron Leader Anuj and Flight Lieutenant Purvesh Duragkar, who were flying the aircraft at the time of the crash.

The accident has prompted an official investigation to determine the cause of the crash.

Aircraft Lost Radar Contact After Take-Off

According to the Indian Air Force, the Sukhoi Su-30MKI fighter jet lost radar contact shortly after take-off from Jorhat.

The aircraft was reportedly conducting a routine training sortie when communication with the jet was suddenly lost.

Soon after the loss of radar contact, search and rescue operations were initiated to locate the aircraft.

Later, the wreckage of the fighter jet was found in the Karbi Anglong district of Assam, confirming that the aircraft had crashed.

Two Pilots Confirmed Dead

The Indian Air Force later confirmed that both pilots onboard the aircraft had sustained fatal injuries in the crash.

The deceased pilots were identified as:

• Squadron Leader Anuj

• Flight Lieutenant Purvesh Duragkar

In an official statement, the Indian Air Force expressed deep sorrow over the loss of the two officers.

IAF Expresses Condolences

The Indian Air Force paid tribute to the pilots and extended condolences to their families.

In a message shared publicly, the force stated that all personnel stand firmly with the bereaved families during this difficult time.

The tragic loss has been mourned across defence circles, with many expressing respect for the service and sacrifice of the officers.

Investigation Ordered

Authorities have launched an investigation into the crash to determine what caused the aircraft to go down.

Standard procedure in such incidents involves a Court of Inquiry, where technical experts examine factors such as mechanical systems, flight conditions and operational details.

The findings of the investigation will help determine whether the crash resulted from a technical malfunction, operational issue or other factors.

Sukhoi Su-30MKI in Indian Air Force

The Sukhoi Su-30MKI is one of the most advanced fighter jets in the Indian Air Force’s fleet. It is a multi-role air superiority fighter designed for air combat and ground attack missions.

The aircraft plays a key role in India’s air defence capabilities and is deployed at several air bases across the country.

Training sorties involving such aircraft are regularly conducted to maintain operational readiness.

Nation Mourns the Loss

The loss of two experienced officers has deeply saddened members of the armed forces and the wider community.

Defence officials and citizens alike have expressed condolences and honoured the service of the pilots who died while carrying out their duty.

Further details about the incident are expected to emerge as the investigation progresses.