IAF Confirms Death of Two Pilots in Su-30MKI Fighter Jet Crash in Assam

KARBI ANGLONG, 06 March 2026 — The Indian Air Force (IAF) has officially acknowledged the tragic loss of two officers, Squadron Leader Anuj and Flight Lieutenant Purvesh Duragkar, who were killed when their Su-30MKI fighter jet crashed during a routine training mission.

The aircraft, which had taken off from the Jorhat airbase, lost radar contact at approximately 7:42 PM on Thursday evening. Search and rescue teams later located the wreckage in a hilly, forested area of Karbi Anglong district, roughly 60 km from its point of origin.

In a statement released on Friday, March 6, 2026, the IAF expressed profound grief over the incident, stating that all personnel stand firmly with the bereaved families during this time of immense sorrow.The Sukhoi Su-30MKI is a cornerstone of India’s aerial defense, and investigators are now working to determine the exact cause of the crash.

Initial reports from local residents in the Nilip block described hearing a loud explosion near the remote hills shortly after the aircraft went missing. This loss marks a somber day for the force as they honor the sacrifice of the young pilots who were performing their duties in the service of the nation.