“The IAF acknowledges the loss of Sqn Ldr Anuj and Flt Lt Purvesh Duragkar, who sustained fatal injuries in the Su-30 crash,” stated the Indian Air Force in a recent announcement.

The crash occurred on March 6, 2026, in the Karbi Anglong district of Assam, approximately 60 kilometers from Jorhat. The aircraft, a Sukhoi Su-30MKI, lost contact with ground control at around 7:42 PM shortly after taking off from Jorhat airbase.

Local residents reported hearing a loud explosion-like sound near the crash site, raising immediate concerns about the aircraft’s status. Search and rescue operations were swiftly initiated following the incident, although the outcome was tragic.

The Indian Air Force expressed its condolences to the families of the deceased pilots, emphasizing the deep sorrow felt across the organization. “All personnel of the IAF express sincere condolences and stand firmly with the bereaved family in this time of grief,” the IAF added.

The Sukhoi Su-30MKI is a two-seater multirole long-range fighter jet developed by Sukhoi and has been a vital part of the Indian Air Force’s fleet since its induction in 1997. The IAF currently operates more than 260 of these aircraft.

Previous accidents involving the Su-30MKI have raised concerns about the aircraft’s safety record, including crashes in Nashik in June 2024 and Gwalior in January 2023. The aircraft involved in the recent crash was built under license by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL).

As investigations into the cause of the crash begin, details remain unconfirmed regarding the specific circumstances that led to this tragic event. The IAF has stated, “An IAF Su-30 MKI is reported overdue,” highlighting the urgency of the situation.

The loss of Sqn Ldr Anuj and Flt Lt Purvesh Duragkar marks a significant tragedy for the Indian Air Force, which continues to emphasize the importance of safety in its operations.

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