Tragic Su-30 MKI Crash Claims Lives of Two IAF Pilots in Assam

A tragic incident occurred in Assam's Karbi Anglong district, where a Su-30 MKI fighter jet crashed during a training mission, resulting in the deaths of two pilots. The Indian Air Force has expressed its condolences to the families of Squadron Leader Anuj and Flight Lieutenant Purvesh Duragkar. This incident adds to a series of recent crashes involving Sukhoi aircraft, raising concerns about aviation safety. Read on for more details about this heartbreaking event and the IAF's response.

By Narendra Chaudhary Mar 6, 2026, 10:34 IST

Fatal Incident in Karbi Anglong

New Delhi: The Indian Air Force (IAF) reported that two pilots tragically lost their lives following the crash of a Su-30 MKI fighter jet in the Karbi Anglong district of Assam on Thursday.

The aircraft was engaged in a training exercise when it went down approximately 60 kilometers from Jorhat, according to a statement from the IAF.

The IAF expressed deep sorrow over the loss of Squadron Leader Anuj and Flight Lieutenant Purvesh Duragkar, who both suffered fatal injuries in the incident. The organization extended heartfelt condolences and support to the families affected during this difficult time, as stated in a post on X.

The Su-30MKI is a versatile, long-range fighter jet designed by the Russian company Sukhoi and is currently manufactured under license by HAL for the IAF.

The IAF maintains a fleet of over 260 Su-30MKI aircraft.

This incident follows a previous crash of a Sukhoi fighter jet in Nashik, Maharashtra, in June 2024, and another incident involving a Sukhoi-30 jet that occurred in January 2023 shortly after takeoff from Gwalior airbase.