Tragic Incident in Assam
“The IAF acknowledges the loss of Sqn Ldr Anuj and Flt Lt Purvesh Duragkar, who sustained fatal injuries in the Su-30 crash,” stated an official from the Indian Air Force.
The crash occurred on March 6, 2026, during a training mission in the Karbi Anglong district of Assam. The Sukhoi Su-30MKI fighter jet took off from Jorhat airbase before losing contact with ground control.
Communication with the aircraft was lost at approximately 7:42 PM, raising immediate concerns among the IAF and local authorities. Eyewitnesses reported hearing a loud explosion-like sound near the crash site, which is located around 60 kilometers from Jorhat.
Local residents expressed their shock, with one stating, “We heard a loud noise and an explosion.” This incident has drawn attention to the safety protocols surrounding military training operations.
The Sukhoi Su-30MKI, developed by Russian manufacturer Sukhoi and built under license by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), has been a crucial part of the Indian Air Force since its induction in 1997. The IAF currently operates a fleet of over 260 of these advanced fighter jets.
As investigations into the cause of the crash begin, the IAF is expected to release further details regarding the incident. The loss of two skilled pilots is a significant blow to the force, which emphasizes the risks associated with military aviation training.
Details remain unconfirmed as authorities work to gather more information about the circumstances surrounding the crash.
