Two Indian Air Force pilots died in an IAF Su-30MKI crash during a training mission in Assam. The tragic incident occurred during a routine exercise, raising concerns and prompting an investigation by the Indian Air Force.
A tragic accident involving an Indian Air Force (IAF) Sukhoi Su-30MKI fighter jet claimed the lives of two pilots during a routine training mission in Assam. The aircraft crashed in the Karbi Anglong district, a hilly region located about 60 kilometers from the Jorhat Air Force Station.
Officials confirmed that both pilots onboard the aircraft died in the crash, marking another serious loss for the Indian Air Force. The incident has prompted an immediate investigation into the cause of the accident.
Aircraft Lost Contact Shortly After Takeoff
According to initial reports, the Su-30MKI fighter jet took off from Jorhat Air Force Station for a routine training sortie. However, the aircraft lost contact with ground control at around 7:42 PM, raising concerns among air traffic controllers.
Soon after, the aircraft crashed in a remote hilly area of Karbi Anglong. Rescue and search teams were immediately deployed to the crash site to locate the pilots and secure the area.
Pilots Identified
The two pilots who lost their lives in the crash were identified as:
- Squadron Leader Anuj
- Flight Lieutenant Purvesh Duragkar
Both officers were experienced pilots serving in the Indian Air Force. Their deaths have deeply saddened the defence community and the nation.
Investigation Ordered by Indian Air Force
Following the crash, the Indian Air Force ordered a detailed investigation to determine the cause of the accident. Technical malfunction, operational factors, or weather conditions are among the possibilities being examined.
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh also expressed grief over the loss of the pilots and paid tribute to their service and dedication to the nation.
About the Sukhoi Su-30MKI Fighter Jet
The Sukhoi Su-30MKI is one of the most advanced fighter aircraft in the Indian Air Force fleet. Developed in Russia and produced in India under license, the aircraft is a twin-engine, multi-role fighter jet capable of air superiority missions and ground attack operations.
The Indian Air Force operates more than 200 Su-30MKI aircraft, making it one of the backbone fighters of India’s air defense system.
Nation Mourns the Loss
The tragic accident has sparked condolences from across the country. Military officials, political leaders, and citizens have paid tribute to the bravery and sacrifice of the pilots.
The Indian Air Force said the service and dedication of the officers will always be remembered as they carried out their duties in defense of the nation.
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