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

Fatal Incident In Karbi Anglong

Jorhat, Mar 6: A tragic accident occurred on Thursday night when a Sukhoi Su-30MKI fighter jet from the Indian Air Force (IAF) crashed near Chokihola in the Karbi Anglong district during a training exercise, resulting in the deaths of two pilots.

The IAF reported that the aircraft was part of a formation of four jets engaged in night-flying training when it lost contact and failed to return to its base. The last radar signal was detected over Santilangso, approximately 60 kilometers from Jorhat.

The deceased pilots have been identified as Squadron Leader Anuj and Flight Lieutenant Purvesh Durgakar.

In a statement expressing their sorrow, the IAF extended condolences to the families of the fallen officers. They stated, “IAF acknowledges the loss of Sqn Ldr Anuj and Flt Lt Purvesh Durgakar, 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.”

In response to the incident, a significant rescue operation was initiated overnight, involving IAF personnel, the Army, and paramilitary forces. The teams successfully located the wreckage of the aircraft along with scattered human remains at the crash site.

“A search team has been dispatched to investigate the circumstances surrounding the crash. The jet was part of a quartet of planes training for night operations, but this particular aircraft did not make it back. Radar contact was lost over an area known as Santilangso, near Barpung,” stated administrative sources in Diphu.

A local resident recounted the moments leading up to the crash, noting an unusual sound just before the aircraft went down in Kolapahar. “We saw a flight and then heard a noise which was something different. Within minutes, the flight fell down at Kolapahar. We noticed smoke coming out of the hill and for three to four seconds there was fire,” the resident reported.