IAF Sukhoi Su-30MKI crashes in Assam, 2 pilots dead

A Sukhoi Su-30MKI fighter jet of the Indian Air Force crashed in the Karbi Anglong region of Assam after disappearing from radar during a training exercise. The aircraft reportedly lost contact with ground control while on a routine mission, triggering an immediate alert from the Air Force.

The Air Force confirmed the crash at around 1:09 am on Thursday night. Later on Friday morning, officials confirmed that both pilots on board the aircraft had died in the accident. The deceased officers were identified as Squadron Leader Anuj and Flight Lieutenant Purvesh Duragkar.

According to officials, the fighter jet lost radar contact while flying over the hilly terrain of Karbi Anglong, following which a search and rescue operation was launched. Teams from the Indian Air Force and the Army were deployed to locate the aircraft and assess the situation at the crash site.

Authorities said an investigation has been initiated to determine the exact cause of the crash. Officials are currently working to identify the precise location of the wreckage and gather further details about the circumstances that led to the loss of contact with the aircraft.