GUWAHATI — The Indian Air Force (IAF) confirmed on Friday, March 6, 2026, the tragic deaths of two pilots following a Sukhoi-30MKI crash in Assam. This marks the third significant accident involving the Russian-origin fighter jet in recent years.
The twin-engine aircraft took off from the Jorhat airbase on Thursday evening. It was conducting a routine training mission over the northeast. However, the jet lost radar contact at approximately 7:42 pm. Consequently, the IAF declared the aircraft “overdue” and launched an immediate search operation.
The Su-30MKI which was on a training mission, crashed in the area of Karbi Anglong, Assam, approx 60 km from Jorhat. Search operations are underway.@DefenceMinIndia@SpokespersonMoD@HQ_IDS_India@adgpi@indiannavy https://t.co/64Ii5V2fiZ
— Indian Air Force (@IAF_MCC) March 5, 2026
Search and Recovery in Karbi Anglong
The aircraft went down in the densely forested hills of Karbi Anglong. This region is roughly 60 km from the Jorhat base. Local residents in the Chokihola area reported hearing a massive explosion on Thursday night.
Despite the difficult terrain, rescue teams reached the site around 1 am on Friday. They discovered the charred debris scattered across the hills. Sadly, the IAF later identified the deceased as Squadron Leader Anuj and Flight Lieutenant Purvesh Duragkar. Both officers sustained fatal injuries during the impact.
The IAF issued a statement expressing sincere condolences to the bereaved families. They emphasized that the force stands firmly with the families during this time of grief.
Patterns of Recent Sukhoi-30MKI Crashes
This tragedy is not an isolated event for the IAF’s frontline fleet. In June 2024, a Sukhoi-30MKI crashed in the Nashik district of Maharashtra. In that instance, the aircraft was on a test sortie after an overhaul by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL). Fortunately, both pilots ejected safely before the crash.
Furthermore, another Sukhoi-30MKI was involved in a mid-air collision near Gwalior in January 2023. That accident involved a Mirage-2000 and resulted in the loss of one pilot. These recurring incidents raise serious questions about the maintenance and safety protocols of the fleet.
The Sukhoi-30MKI remains the backbone of India’s combat power. The IAF currently operates more than 260 of these long-range multirole fighters. HAL produces these jets under license in India. However, the recent string of losses has prompted the Ministry of Defence to order a high-level inquiry.
Also Read : NEET UG 2026 Registration Last Date Ends Today, Apply Now at neet.nta.nic.in
Investigation and Safety Concerns
Officials have not yet determined the exact cause of the Assam crash. Investigators will examine the “Black Box” to understand the final moments of the flight. They will look for signs of technical failure or pilot spatial disorientation.
The Karbi Anglong region is known for its unpredictable weather and treacherous hills. These factors often complicate low-light training missions. Moreover, the age of the fleet and the frequency of overhauls are subjects of ongoing debate within defense circles.
The IAF continues to prioritize pilot safety. Nevertheless, the loss of seasoned officers remains a heavy blow to the service. The nation now awaits the findings of the Court of Inquiry.