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