An Indian Air Force Sukhoi Su-30MKI fighter jet crashed in the Karbi Anglong district of Assam on Thursday night during a training mission, resulting in the deaths of both pilots on board.
According to the Indian Air Force, the two-seater fighter jet was on a routine training flight and had taken off from the Jorhat airbase in Assam in the evening. The aircraft lost contact with the control room shortly after take-off.
The aircraft was last in contact with the control room at approximately 7:42 pm. When the jet did not return at the scheduled time, the Air Force immediately launched a search and rescue operation.
After several hours of search, the wreckage of the aircraft was located late at night in a hilly area of Karbi Anglong district, about 60 kilometres from Jorhat.
In an official statement, the Indian Air Force said that Squadron Leader Anuj and Flight Lieutenant Purvesh Durgakar sustained severe injuries in the crash and died as a result.
The Air Force expressed deep sorrow over the deaths of the two officers in a post on social media, stating that all members of the force stand with the families of the deceased pilots and convey their condolences.
The Sukhoi Su-30MKI is one of the most advanced multirole fighter aircraft operated by the Indian Air Force. The aircraft is designed by the Russian aircraft manufacturer Sukhoi and is produced in India under licence.
The two-seater, twin-engine fighter jet is designed for long-range missions, aerial combat operations and precision strike capabilities. The aircraft forms a key component of the Indian Air Force fleet and plays a central role in the country’s air defence.
