What Happened to the IAF Sukhoi-30MKI? Search Operations Underway in Assam

A Sukhoi Su-30MKI fighter aircraft from the Indian Air Force has lost radar contact during a routine mission over Assam's Karbi Anglong district. This incident has prompted immediate search and rescue operations involving the Air Force and local security agencies. The challenging terrain of dense forests and mountains may complicate efforts to locate the aircraft. Previous incidents involving Sukhoi-30MKI jets have raised concerns, but authorities are actively working to gather more information and ensure the safety of the crew. Stay tuned for updates as the situation develops.

By Narendra Chaudhary Mar 5, 2026, 22:10 IST

Missing Sukhoi-30MKI Fighter Aircraft Sparks Search Efforts

Guwahati: On Thursday, a Sukhoi Su-30MKI fighter jet belonging to the Indian Air Force (IAF) lost radar contact while conducting a mission over the Karbi Anglong district in Assam, according to defense officials.

The Defence Public Relations Officer (PRO) reported that the aircraft disappeared from radar during what was termed a routine operation, triggering an immediate response from the Air Force and various security agencies.

The PRO stated, “An IAF Sukhoi-30 aircraft has lost radar contact. Air Force teams have been dispatched to investigate and confirm the situation.”

Preliminary information suggests that the aircraft was navigating the hilly regions of Karbi Anglong when it suddenly lost communication with ground control.

Search and rescue teams from the Air Force, along with local administration personnel and other security forces, have been deployed to locate the aircraft and clarify the circumstances of the incident.

Officials are currently working to gather more details regarding the aircraft's last known location and the number of crew members on board.

Sources within the defense sector indicated that the area where radar contact was lost is predominantly covered with dense forests and mountainous terrain, which may complicate search and rescue efforts.

Rescue teams are collaborating closely with local authorities and other security forces to conduct operations in the region.

The Sukhoi-30MKI is a key multi-role fighter aircraft for the Indian Air Force, playing a vital role in the nation's air defense strategy.

There have been previous incidents involving Sukhoi-30MKI aircraft. For instance, in August 2019, one crashed in a paddy field near Tezpur, Assam, during a routine training flight, but both pilots successfully ejected and were rescued.

In May 2015, another Sukhoi-30MKI went down approximately 36 km south of the Tezpur Air Force base shortly after takeoff, with both pilots ejecting safely before the crash.

Authorities have confirmed that search operations are ongoing, and further updates will be provided as more information becomes available.