News Flash Daily
06 March 
Routine IAF Training Sortie Ends in Catastrophe as Fighter Jet Crashes in Karbi Anglong; Nation Mourns Loss of Two Brave Air Warriors
Anglong: A tragic fighter jet crash in Assam has dealt a major blow to India’s defence forces after a Sukhoi-30MKI fighter aircraft of the Indian Air Force (IAF) crashed during a routine training mission, killing two brave pilots on board. The incident occurred on Thursday evening in Karbi Anglong district of Assam, shortly after the aircraft took off from Jorhat Airbase.
The loss of the two officers has triggered widespread grief across the defence community and the country, as they had dedicated their lives to safeguarding India’s national security.
IAF Confirms Fatal Crash During Training Mission
According to an official statement issued by the Indian Air Force, the Sukhoi-30MKI was conducting a routine training sortie when the aircraft crashed in a remote area of Karbi Anglong, located approximately 60 kilometres from Jorhat in Assam.
The aircraft reportedly lost radar contact shortly after takeoff, raising immediate concern among air defence controllers. Rescue and search teams were swiftly deployed to locate the aircraft.
Last Radar Contact Recorded at 7:42 PM
Officials revealed that the last communication with the Russian-origin Sukhoi-30MKI fighter jet was recorded at 7:42 PM on Thursday evening. After radar contact was lost, emergency procedures were immediately activated, and a large-scale search operation was launched in the surrounding forested region.
Authorities began scanning the crash zone overnight with assistance from local administration and security teams.
Wreckage Located; Two Pilots Confirmed Dead
During the search operation, teams located the wreckage of the crashed aircraft, confirming the worst fears of the authorities. The Indian Air Force officially confirmed on Friday that both pilots onboard the fighter jet had succumbed to fatal injuries in the crash.
The deceased officers have been identified as Squadron Leader Anuj and Flight Lieutenant Purvesh Duragkar. Their untimely demise has deeply shaken the defence fraternity.
“The Indian Air Force expresses its deepest condolences to the families of the deceased pilots. In this difficult time, the entire IAF stands firmly with the bereaved families,” the Air Force said in an official statement.
Nation Pays Tribute to Fallen Air Warriors
The deaths of the two officers have been widely mourned within the Indian Air Force and the broader defence establishment. Fellow officers, defence personnel, and citizens across the country have paid tribute to the pilots who sacrificed their lives while serving the nation.
Investigation Ordered Into Cause of Crash
Authorities have launched a formal investigation to determine the exact cause of the accident. Officials are examining whether the crash was caused by a technical malfunction, operational issues, or other unforeseen factors.
The Indian Air Force has constituted a court of inquiry to thoroughly examine the circumstances leading to the tragic crash.
Previous Sukhoi-30MKI Accidents
This is not the first time a Sukhoi-30MKI fighter jet has been involved in an accident. In June 2024, another Sukhoi aircraft crashed in the Nashik district of Maharashtra during a flight operation.
Earlier, in January 2023, a Sukhoi-30 aircraft that had taken off from Gwalior Airbase also met with an accident during a mission.
Such incidents remain rare but highlight the risks associated with operating high-performance combat aircraft.
About the Sukhoi-30MKI Fighter Jet
The Sukhoi-30MKI is considered one of the most advanced and powerful fighter jets in the Indian Air Force fleet. Developed in collaboration with Russia, the aircraft is known for its long-range capability, high maneuverability, and powerful combat systems.
Many of these aircraft are manufactured in India under licensed production, strengthening the country’s indigenous defence capabilities.
Despite the tragic accident, the Sukhoi-30MKI continues to be regarded as a backbone of India’s aerial combat strength.
A Major Loss to India’s Defence Forces
The unfortunate crash in Assam has been described as a significant loss to India’s defence community. The country will always remember the courage and service of the two brave pilots who devoted their lives to protecting the nation.
