Search Operation Launched After IAF Su-30 MKI Goes Missing from Radar Near Guwahati

GUWAHATI, March 5, 2026 — The Indian Air Force (IAF) has initiated an intensive search and rescue operation following the disappearance of a Sukhoi Su-30 MKI fighter aircraft from radar screens this evening.

According to the Defence PRO in Guwahati, the frontline multirole fighter lost contact with ground stations during a routine mission in the region.

Specialist Air Force teams have been deployed to the last known coordinates to ascertain the facts of the incident and locate the missing jet.

Military officials confirmed that the aircraft was on a scheduled sortie when communication was abruptly severed, prompting an immediate high-level alert across the Eastern Command.

Ground search parties and aerial assets are currently scanning the challenging, densely forested terrain of the Northeast to find the aircraft and its crew.

While the specific cause of the radar loss remains under investigation, the IAF is prioritizing the safety of the pilots and has established a coordination center to manage the ongoing search efforts. Further updates are expected as the mission progresses through the night.