Guwahati: Two Indian Air Force (IAF) pilots lost their lives after a Sukhoi Su-30MKI fighter aircraft crashed in Assam’s Karbi Anglong district, roughly 60 kilometres from Jorhat, during a routine training sortie, according to media reports.
The deceased officers have been identified as Squadron Leader Anuj and Flight Lieutenant Purvesh Duragkar, who suffered fatal injuries in the crash.
In an official statement shared on X, the Indian Air Force expressed deep sorrow over the tragedy, saying all personnel stand in solidarity with the grieving families of the officers. “All personnel of the Indian Air Force express sincere condolences and stand firmly with the bereaved family in this time of grief,” the statement said.
IAF acknowledges the loss of Sqn Ldr Anuj and Flt Lt Purvesh Duragkar, who sustained fatal injuries in the Su-30 crash. All personnel of the IAF express sincere condolences, and stand firmly with the bereaved family in this time of grief.@DefenceMinIndia@SpokespersonMoD… pic.twitter.com/zUtfUJ2ewr
— Indian Air Force (@IAF_MCC) March 6, 2026
The fighter jet had taken off from the Jorhat airbase on Thursday evening for a training mission. However, contact with ground control was reportedly lost shortly after take-off.
According to the Air Force, the aircraft lost communication with the ground at approximately 7:42 pm, triggering concern and subsequent reports of the crash in the Karbi Anglong region.
Further details about the incident and the cause of the crash are awaited, and an investigation is expected to be initiated to determine the circumstances leading to the accident.
